Missing South Carolina infant rescued after being buried alive in a dog crate for 24 hours

A search leads to the woods

Koah was reported missing while his grandmother was running errands. She had left him with his father, Michael Comer, as another caregiver was on the way, Sheriff Jay Koon said.

After a full day of searching, authorities spotted freshly disturbed soil in woods near the boy’s grandfather’s home. They dug and found Koah inside a dog crate wrapped in a towel.

Koon said the crate was buried shallowly, with about a foot of soil above it. The towel may have left an air pocket, and cool temperatures may also have helped Koah survive.

Father arrested as inquiry continues

Comer, 25, was arrested Monday night and held without bond on a burglary charge, Koon said. Investigators were working with prosecutors to determine whether additional charges would be brought.

Deputies had searched the grandfather’s home, where they found open doors and baby belongings, but did not see Comer or Koah. Surveillance video from area businesses showed Comer without the infant on Monday afternoon, according to Koon.

Family describes relief and concerns

Koah was taken to a hospital after he was freed. His condition was not immediately known Wednesday. Nearly 100 first responders took part in the search. Hammond said Comer had spoken about taking Koah to New York because he did not want to be in the same state as the child’s mother. Koon said Koah’s parents had faced domestic violence charges.