Missing 8-Year-Old Found Drowned After Running Away from School
A second grader in South Carolina tragically drowned after running away from school on September 12, 2024.
Eight-year-old Lionel Ramirez Cervantes was a student at Bells Crossing Elementary School in Simpsonville. He was last seen at the school around 11 a.m. before vanishing.
Ran from School
According to reports, Lionel ran from his classroom and the school grounds while accompanied by two other students and three staff members. The staff attempted to follow him but quickly lost track.
The Greenville County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) launched an extensive search effort to locate Lionel. At 2:10 p.m., authorities posted an update:
“Lionel is still missing. While we continue our search, we ask that community members do not search on foot, as we have K-9 units tracking his scent. We encourage residents to check their property and camera systems for any activity that may have captured Lionel’s movements.”
Tragically, just two hours later, the sheriff’s office reported that Lionel had been found.
Found in Nearby Pond
At 4:12 p.m., the GCSO shared on Facebook:
“It is with heavy hearts that we report 8-year-old Lionel Ramirez Cervantes, who ran off from Bells Crossing Elementary School, has been located in a body of water off Lenox Lake Drive, a short distance from the school. Lionel reportedly left the school and was last seen near the playground around 11:10 a.m. Deputies conducted search and rescue efforts throughout the day, and shortly after 3:00 p.m., dive team members recovered his body. Victim coordinators are on site to support the family during this devastating time. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.”
Mother Speaks Out
Lionel’s mother, Dalia Cervantes, a single mother of five, expressed her heartbreak on social media.
“Today I received a call from Lionel’s school that he went missing. A few hours later he was found in a nearby creek. I know he is now in a better place, with his dad, but my boy did not have to lose his life this way,” she wrote.
She added:
“Negligence caused his death. Now I am left without my Leo. I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to send condolences and support to me and my kids. I saw the video, and it does not justify their actions.”
The community remains in shock at this heartbreaking tragedy, as officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Lionel’s death.