The Lexington County Sheriff's Department in South Carolina reported an 11-month-old boy, Koah Sharpe, missing on Monday after his father, Michael Comer, allegedly took him. A search party of nearly 100 police officers, firefighters, and other officials combed the area, but no signs of Comer or the child were found. However, on Tuesday, a team of investigators discovered Sharpe buried alive in a dog crate wrapped in a towel, according to Sheriff Bryan Koon.
The investigation began when Comer was found and arrested on a burglary charge and resisting arrest late Monday night. At the time, Sharpe was not with him. Koon explained that Sharpe's mother had left her son in Comer's care while she ran an errand, and another caregiver was due to arrive. By the time the caregiver arrived, Comer and Sharpe were gone.
Deputies searched Comer's father's home on Monday, finding the doors open and baby belongings, but no signs of Comer or Sharpe. The search party continued to scour the area, and it was not until Tuesday that they discovered Sharpe buried in the woods, approximately 100 yards from Comer's father's home.
As the team dug, they heard Sharpe crying, prompting a frantic rescue effort. Sharpe was eventually extracted from the dog crate and taken to the hospital, where he is receiving care. Sheriff Koon expressed hope that the 11-month-old will make a full recovery.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working with the prosecutor's office to determine Comer's charges. Koon emphasized the importance of cooperation and thanked the search party for their efforts.
In a statement to NBC News, Patricia Comer, the child's grandmother, revealed that Sharpe's mother has full custody, but Sharpe's mother allows Patricia to supervise the child on weekends. Patricia expressed shock and disbelief at Comer's actions, stating that he had always been good with the child.
This article provides a detailed account of the events surrounding Koah Sharpe's disappearance and eventual discovery. The investigation and rescue efforts are a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the Lexington County Sheriff's Department.
Written by: Shamrock Foam | The Citizen Edition
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