Several hours after a 4-year-old boy was reported missing at James Island County Park, rescue officials said they had recovered the body of a small child.
Charleston police say Duffy McLemore was reported missing around 4:45 p.m. He had last been seen in the Spray area. Park officials reported it to police about 30 minutes later.
His body was recovered in a pond just after 10 p.m.
McLemore was last seen wearing blue swimming trunks and blue and orange water shoes.
Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg thanked all the first responders who joined in the search of the park. He said the accidental loss of life is a tragedy for McLemore’s family and community.
Charleston police said the rescue operation had transitioned to supporting the family and first responders.
“This is such a tragedy for this family and the community. The family needs our support and prayers,” police said in a statement.
The Charleston Police Department, Charleston Fire Department, James Island Fire Department, Coast Guard, Charleston County Rescue, Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office and SLED participated in the search.
