TRULY NO HOPE LEFT: The search for the missing 4-y...

TRULY NO HOPE LEFT: The search for the missing 4-year-old nonverbal boy has ended with the heartbreaking news that no family ever wants to receive

Axel.Credit : Facebook

NEED TO KNOW

A 4-year-old boy with autism was found dead in Kansas a day after he went missing
“Everyone who knew Axel knew he was the most upbeat, happy, excited kid ever,” dad Togan Loneys wrote in a tribute
The investigation into the child’s death remains ongoing

A 4-year-old boy with autism has been found dead shortly after he went missing in Kansas.

Axel, who was nonverbal, was reported missing on Friday, June 5, the Geary County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) said in a news release.

“An extensive search operation was immediately initiated and involved numerous law enforcement agencies, first responders and community volunteers. Search efforts continued throughout the evening and into the following day,” officials said.

Axel was found the next day in the early afternoon. He was taken to Stormont Vail Health in Junction City, where he was pronounced dead.

“The Geary County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the family during this difficult time,” police said.

Axel.Facebook

Officials also expressed gratitude to those who assisted with the search for Axel. “The overwhelming support demonstration throughout this incident reflects the strength, compassion and unity of our community,” authorities said.

No additional information surrounding Axel’s death has been made public. The investigation remains ongoing.

The sheriff’s department initially said it was looking for a missing 4-year-old in the 1900 block of Swenson Road.

WIBW reported that Axel weighed 54 lbs. and stood about 4 feet tall.

Geary County Sheriff’s Office vehicle.Geary County Sheriff’s Office/Facebook

Togan Loneys, who identified himself as Axel’s dad, remembered the child as his “best friend” in a Facebook post.

“The search was called off due to us finding him deceased. This is the absolute hardest time of our lives right now,” he wrote. “I [will] never get to hold my best friend, talk to him, play with him or share my birthday treats with him.”

“Everyone who knew Axel knew he was the most upbeat, happy, excited kid ever. He lit up every room he came into and was loved by so many,” Loneys continued.

“Mom and Dad are gona [sic] miss you so much buddy, I can’t even explain the feelings you left behind,” the grieving father added.

Cheyenne Koppa, who identified herself as Axel’s mom, also remembered him through a Facebook post.

“As many know, Axel has joined his family up in heaven. Despite having the biggest search party & wonderful community, I didn’t get to hold my baby boy again,” she wrote.

“But I’m grateful to know he was loved by many. Thank you for all the kind words & wonderful people helping out, but please give us time to grieve,” Koppa added.

SOURCE: PEOPLE