Six-Year-Old Boy Found Deceased in Waverly Pond

Authorities say the child went missing Tuesday evening and was later discovered in a local pond.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:45pm

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A six-year-old boy tragically passed away on Tuesday, March 31st after going missing in the city of Waverly, Missouri. Deputies responded to a report of a missing child around 8:45 p.m. and located the child in a pond within the city limits about two hours later. Despite emergency responders' efforts, they were unable to revive the child.

Why it matters

The death of a young child is always a devastating event that shakes a local community. This incident has left the Waverly area and the student's school district in mourning, raising questions about child safety and the need for improved emergency response procedures.

The details

According to the Lafayette County Sheriff's Office, the six-year-old boy was a student at Santa Fe Elementary School. After the child was reported missing, a multi-agency search effort was launched involving the Waverly Police, Waverly Fire Protection District, Carroll County EMS, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Missouri Department of Conservation, Alma Fire, and Higginsville Police. Tragically, the child was later found deceased in a local pond.

  • The incident was reported to authorities around 8:45 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31st.
  • First responders located the child in the pond approximately two hours later.

The players

Lafayette County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to the initial report of a missing child and led the search effort.

Santa Fe Elementary School

The school attended by the six-year-old boy who tragically passed away.

Derek Lark

The superintendent of the school district who issued a statement expressing condolences to the student's family and friends.

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What they’re saying

“Our entire community is deeply saddened by this tragic loss. Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathies are with the student's family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.”

— Derek Lark, Superintendent, Santa Fe Elementary School

What’s next

Authorities have not yet released details on the cause of the child's death, and an investigation into the incident is ongoing.

The takeaway

This heartbreaking tragedy has left the Waverly community in mourning and highlights the importance of child safety measures, emergency response protocols, and the need for continued support and resources for grieving families and schools affected by such devastating losses.