Tragic Discovery: Missing Autistic Toddler, Jermaine Jones Found Deceased in Michigan River : 'Pray for the Family'

A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded as a 2-year-old boy with autism, who went missing from his home in Michigan, was discovered lifeless in a local river.

The little boy, Jermaine Jones, was found by divers in the Looking Glass River on Tuesday afternoon, as confirmed by Clinton County Sheriff Sean Dush, according to reports from NBC affiliate WILX-TV and the Lansing State Journal.

The sad news of Jermaine's passing was also confirmed by the Clinton County Sheriff's Office through a Facebook post, where they requested prayers for the grieving family during this devastating time.

Investigations indicate that there is no suspicion of foul play in the boy's disappearance and tragic demise.

The search for the toddler began after he wandered away from his Watertown Township home on South Bauer Road, while under the care of a babysitter who reported that he disappeared during a brief shower. The babysitter's account mentioned that Jermaine, who was nonverbal, went missing for less than 10 minutes.

Several witnesses spotted Jermaine walking north on Bauer Road near Avalon and Riverside Drive shortly after he left his home, adding to the urgency of the search.

The community rallied in support of the search efforts, with over 500 volunteers participating in Tuesday's operation.

Specialized search teams worked tirelessly through the night, called in to assist by the sheriff's office.

The search received cooperation and support from various agencies, including the Michigan State Police and Michigan’s Emergency Management & Homeland Security Department.

An autopsy is expected to be performed on Jermaine's remains, providing further insight into the circumstances.

The sheriff expressed gratitude for the community's solidarity in times of crisis, highlighting the importance of people coming together to support one another.

In a GoFundMe fundraiser message, a family member appealed for financial assistance to cover the "unexpected funeral costs." Jermaine was described as a vibrant and lively child, and the fundraiser had already raised over $10,000 as of Wednesday morning.

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