Categories: School News

Tragic Incident in Simpsonville: 8-Year-Old Found Dead – Community Grieves and Comes Together

Tragic Incident in Simpsonville: 8-Year-Old Found Dead

SIMSPSONVILLE, S.C. —

An 8-year-old boy was discovered dead in a neighborhood pond after running away from class at an elementary school on Thursday. The young student, identified as Lionel Ramirez Cervantes, was last seen leaving his classroom at Bell’s Crossing Elementary School.

According to school officials, Lionel was in a room with two other students and three staff members when he suddenly ran out into the hall. He went outside the building, through or over a fence, and eventually into a field filled with tall grass, where he was not visible to anyone. Concerned immediately, police were notified, and a search began as officers, school staff, and community volunteers looked for him.

Sadly, the search took about four hours, leading to the discovery of Lionel’s body in a pond located about 1,000 feet from the school. Authorities have confirmed that the boy drowned, and his death has been ruled accidental by the Greenville County Coroner’s Office.

Sheriff Hobart Lewis expressed the deep sorrow felt in the school and the local community, stating, “A lot of broken hearts in that school and community today.” Before the search concluded, deputies indicated that Lionel might have had autism or another developmental disorder, suggesting he might not have responded to verbal directions.

The school community has been profoundly affected by this tragedy. Principal Chris Ross stated, “This was our worst fear today, and we are grieving as a community. We are devastated to lose one of our children.” Bell’s Crossing Elementary remained open on Friday, with grief counselors available for students and staff. The school district is also providing support for Lionel’s family during this difficult time.

Community Comes Together

The incident has sparked an outpouring of grief, highlighting the strong sense of community in Simpsonville. Local residents have shared their heartbreak, coming together to support one another and remember the young boy who was lost too soon.

As the investigation into the circumstances of his departure from school continues, many are focused on how best to honor Lionel’s memory while also ensuring the safety and well-being of all students in the future.


Author: HERE Greenville

HERE Greenville

Share
Published by
HERE Greenville

Recent Posts

Hurricane Helene Causes Nearly $200 Million in Damage to South Carolina’s Timber Industry

Hurricane Helene Leaves $194 Million Impact on South Carolina Timber Industry Horry County, S.C. —…

9 hours ago

Charges Against South Carolina Forward Ashlyn Watkins Dismissed Amid Legal Proceedings

Charges Dismissed Against South Carolina Forward Ashlyn Watkins Columbia, S.C. - Suspended South Carolina forward…

9 hours ago

Columbia Woman Surprised by Large Snake in Bathroom

Columbia Woman Encounters Snake in Bathroom Columbia, South Carolina – In a surprising incident early…

9 hours ago

Execution of Inmate Richard Moore Marks South Carolina’s First Execution in 13 Years Amid Racial Controversy

Spartanburg, South Carolina Richard Moore, a 59-year-old inmate, was executed on Friday evening in South…

9 hours ago

Free Healthcare Clinic Set to Open in Greenville on February 1st and 2nd

Free Healthcare Clinic Coming to Greenville in February Greenville, mark your calendars! From **February 1st…

11 hours ago

Discovering the Sweet History of Double Cola in Greenville

Discovering the Sweet History of Double Cola in Greenville! Welcome to the charming city of…

11 hours ago