Heartbreaking Tragedy: South Carolina Second Grader Drowns in Pond After Disappearing from School on September 12, 2024
Devastating Tragedy: 8-Year-Old Lionel Ramirez Cervantes Goes Missing After Running Away from School
8-year-old Lionel Ramirez Cervantes, a student at Bells Crossing Elementary School in Simpsonville, South Carolina, was last seen on September 12, 2024, around 11 a.m. before disappearing. According to reports, Lionel fled from his classroom and exited the school premises. He was initially with two other students and three staff members, who attempted to pursue him but ultimately lost sight of him.
Despite a swift search effort launched by the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office to locate the young boy, the outcome was heartbreaking, with reports confirming the tragic end of the search.
“Tragic Discovery: Missing 8-Year-Old Lionel Ramirez Cervantes Found Dead After Fleeing School”
At 2:10 p.m. on September 12, 2024, the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office provided an update, confirming that 8-year-old Lionel Ramirez Cervantes was still missing and urging the public not to search on foot, as they were utilizing search dogs. The department asked community members to check their properties and surveillance footage for any signs of Lionel’s movements.
By 4:12 p.m., the sheriff’s office posted the heartbreaking news that Lionel’s body had been found. The post stated:
“The GCSO is heartbroken to report that 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 out of the school and was last seen near the playground around 11:10 a.m.”
The post continued, describing how deputies had initiated search and rescue efforts, with a dive team ultimately locating Lionel’s body after 3:00 p.m. The office expressed condolences, stating: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.”
As news of the tragedy spread, Lionel’s mother, Dalia Cervantes – a single mother of five – took to social media to share her devastation, mourning the loss of her young son.
“A Heartbroken Mother’s Words After Tragic Loss of Son”
“Lionel’s school called me today to say he was missing. A few hours later, they found him in a nearby creek. I take comfort knowing he’s now in a better place, and with his dad, but my boy did not deserve to lose his life this way,” she shared on Facebook.
“A Grieving Mother’s Heartfelt Message After Tragic Loss”
“Negligence took my son’s life, and now I am left without my Leo. I want to thank everyone who has sent their condolences and support to me and my children during this difficult time. I saw the video, and it does not justify their actions.”
Rest in peace, Lionel Ramirez Cervantes.