Jacayden McCray, Missing Albany 12-Year-Old With Autism, Found Dead in Pond, Coroner Confirms

A 12-year-old boy who was reported missing in Albany has been found deceased, authorities confirmed Saturday morning.

Body Recovered from Pond

According to Michael Fowler, the body of Jacayden McCray was recovered early Saturday from a local pond. Preliminary findings indicate the young boy is suspected to have drowned, though officials say the investigation is ongoing.

Search Effort Followed Urgent Missing Person Alert

Prior to the discovery, the Albany Police Department had issued a critical missing person alert, asking for the public’s help in locating Jacayden.

He was last seen in the 2600 block of Whispering Pines Road, wearing gray pants and a tie-dye shirt.

Authorities noted that Jacayden had autism and was nonverbal, raising additional concern about his ability to communicate or seek help while missing.

Community Mourning and Ongoing Investigation

The tragic outcome has deeply affected the local community, as search efforts shifted from rescue to recovery.

Officials have not yet released further details about how Jacayden entered the pond or the exact timeline of events leading to his death.

Authorities Urge Continued Cooperation

While the boy has been found, investigators are still working to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the case. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Albany Police Department or submit tips through local Crime Stoppers.

More updates are expected as authorities continue their investigation into this heartbreaking incident.