Lucas Rosales: Body of Ohio boy, 7, who vanished while fishing with family found weeks later
DAYTON, OHIO: The body of a seven-year-old boy, Lucas Rosales, who had gone missing while fishing with his family, has been discovered two weeks after his disappearance. According to the Dayton Police Department (DPD), Lucas vanished on April 29 after 6.30 pm near Eastwood MetroPark in Ohio.
In a joint statement from the Dayton Police and Fire Departments, it was revealed that a passerby found the body of a child in downtown Dayton's Great Miami River. Authorities swiftly responded to the scene and successfully retrieved the young boy's body from the river, as reported by People.
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What was Lucas' cause of death?
The Montgomery County Coroner's Office (MCCO) has confirmed that the remains belong to Rosales, although an official cause of death has not been disclosed. "Our hearts go out to Lucas's family in this time of tragedy, and the City of Dayton collectively mourns the loss of this precious young life," stated an official announcement.
According to Rosales' obituary, the seven-year-old was described as a vibrant and cherished little boy, known for his infectious laugh and bright smile. He was remembered as a loving child who deeply touched the lives of those around him. The obituary emphasized that the loss of such a young life is a tragedy that no family or community should ever have to endure.
Rosales' sister 'saw splashes in the water' when he went missing
The police had previously stated that they do not suspect any foul play in the case, although it remains unclear how Rosales drowned in the river. In an interview with CBS affiliate WHIO, Rosales' sister, Da'Najiah Wakefield, revealed that she and their father had warned him about going near the water. However, they are uncertain about what transpired after he joined the others.
"My sister said she heard something fall and someone crying, and she said she saw splashes in the water, and after that, we just don't know," she shared with the outlet. The young boy's body was discovered on Saturday, May 13, shortly after 5.30 pm, according to the Dayton Police and Fire departments.
Schlientz & Moore Funeral Home has set up a special fund to assist Rosales' family in covering his final expenses. The funeral is scheduled for Monday, May 22. "As we mourn the loss of Lucas, let us remember the joy he brought into our lives. Together, we can honor his memory by offering kindness, compassion, and support to those who need it most," stated the obituary.