TRAGIC RECOVERY: 3-YEAR-OLD BOY DIES AFTER GOING MISSING IN NEW LONDON

“Search Ends in Heartbreak as Missing Toddler Found in Wolf River; Investigation into Early-Morning Disappearance Ongoing”

NEW LONDON, WI — The New London Police Department confirmed the death of a 3-year-old boy who went missing from his home during the early morning hours of Monday, April 13, 2026. Following an intensive search involving multiple agencies, drones, and local volunteers, the child was discovered in the Wolf River.

The Incident: Monday, April 13, 2026

The emergency unfolded after the child managed to leave his residence in the middle of the night.

• The Disappearance: The toddler was last seen by his father at their home in the 1000 block of West Beacon Avenue around midnight. He was reported missing to police at 4:58 AM on Monday.

• The Search: A large-scale search operation was immediately launched near New London Middle School. The effort included aerial drones, K-9 units, and “inter-agency support” from several surrounding communities. An Amber Alert was also utilized to aid in the search.

• The Discovery: At 7:17 AM, search teams located the boy in the Wolf River, approximately four blocks from his home. The child had traveled toward the downtown area before entering the water.

Medical Response and Current Status

First responders immediately began life-saving measures upon recovering the child from the river.

• Emergency Transport: The boy was rushed to ThedaCare-New London hospital.

• The Outcome: At approximately 11:15 AM, authorities confirmed that the toddler had passed away.

• River Conditions: Local experts noted that the Wolf River was experiencing dangerous levels and high currents due to recent rainfall, with water levels reaching over 10 feet at the time of the incident.

Status of the Investigation

The New London Police Department is continuing to investigate the timeline of the boy’s movements between midnight and 5:00 AM.

• Causal Factors: Investigators are working to determine where the child entered the water. Preliminary theories suggest he may have entered the river closer to his home and was carried downstream by the current.

• Identity: In accordance with the family’s request for privacy, the child’s name has not been publicly released. At the time of the search, he was described as being 3 feet tall and wearing an orange Chicago Bears shirt and a diaper.

• No Foul Play: At this stage, there is no evidence to suggest foul play, though a standard review of the circumstances surrounding how the child left the home is mandatory.

Community Response

The New London community has expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. Local business owners who witnessed the search efforts described a scene of profound urgency as dozens of responders combed the riverbanks before dawn.

“Our hearts go out to the family during this unimaginably difficult time. We ask that the community respect their privacy as they grieve this immense loss.” — New London Police Chief Joshua Wilson

Safety Awareness: Water and Elopement

Authorities have used this tragedy to remind parents of the risks associated with “wandering” or elopement in young children:

1. Home Security: Using secondary locks, door alarms, or “flip-locks” at a height toddlers cannot reach can prevent early-morning elopements.

2. Water Proximity: Families living near bodies of water are encouraged to install physical barriers and consider early water safety orientation for young children.

Current Status: The investigation remains open. Funeral arrangements have not been announced.

If you or someone you know has been affected by a traffic or water tragedy, grief support resources are available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.