12-year-old boy dies after being found in creek, officials say

CALDWELL COUNTY, N.C. (WBTV/Gray News) — A 12-year-old boy from Charlotte, North Carolina, was found in a creek after being reported missing, authorities said.

On Saturday, June 27, about 4 p.m., a boy was reported missing along Wilson Creek in Caldwell County.

Authorities said the child could not swim and had been missing for about 20 minutes when the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office was notified.

A short time later, responders located the boy in the water. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Wilson Creek is a popular destination, but it also has hazardous conditions, including submerged rocks, fallen trees, and debris. Authorities urge visitors to exercise extreme caution when recreating in the area, wear appropriate safety gear when near or in the water, and never underestimate the strength of natural waterways.