The Baltimore County community is grappling with a tragic loss following the death of six-year-old Marcel Traore, who lived with autism and was non-verbal. Marcel was found deceased in the waters of Lynch Cove in Dundalk on Friday, after an extensive search that mobilized numerous resources. According to a Fox Baltimore report, the young boy was first reported to be on the road around 2:50 a.m. by a resident and was returned to his family by an officer at approximately 3:30 a.m.
However, Marcel went missing again a few hours later, prompting a second, urgent search. Despite the swift efforts to quickly reunite Marcel with his family, it wasn't until 11:30 a.m. that the Baltimore County Fire Department located him in the Cove's waters. A CBS News Baltimore article relayed details about the search, noting that approximately 25 divers, aviation, and K9 units were involved in the operation. Tragically, Marcel was pronounced dead after being rushed to Bayview Hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Shelly McLaughlin, program director for Pathfinders for Autism, addressed the situation by highlighting the inherent risks associated with wandering, or 'elopement,' behaviors that are common among individuals with autism. "Sadly, so many families do experience this, because when it comes to individuals with autism that wander or elope", according to WMAR-2 News Baltimore. In her work, McLaughlin consults with police departments and advises them on effective communication with those living with a developmental disability.
In the wake of the heart-wrenching incident, McLaughlin urged caregivers of children with autism to call 911 immediately upon discovering a child is missing, emphasizing the need to quickly initiate a search. She also recommended that children with elopement behavior receive swimming lessons and that their tendency to wander is known to all potential supervisors, "If your child has elopement behavior, it's really critical that everyone in the school knows that. Anybody that could come into contact with your child," McLaughlin stated WMAR-2 News Baltimore. In response to the incident, Pathfinders for Autism has compiled a safety kit for parents and guardians, which includes various resources aimed at minimizing the risks associated with wandering and elopement behaviors.
The community of Dundalk and beyond remains shaken as the police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Marcel's disappearance and subsequent death. Baltimore County Government expressed their condolences, stating, "This tragic event has undoubtedly shaken the Dundalk Community. The loss of a young life is always deeply felt, and our thoughts and prayers go out to Marcel's family and friends during this difficult time," as reported by CBS News Baltimore. This devastating event serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of water safety and the unique challenges faced by families and caregivers of children with autism.
