Maddox Ritch was 6 years old and had autism. He was born on August 14, 2012. On September 22, 2018, Maddox was walking with his father and a friend at Rankin Lake Park in Gastonia, North Carolina, when he wandered away and went missing. After a community search, his body was discovered in Long Creek on September 27, 2018. His parents are Ian Scott Ritch and Carrie Irene Ritch.
Tribute to Maddox Ritch: "Maddox was a sweet and loving little boy who was full of laughter. He loved Paw Patrol, his Teddy, playing with bouncy balls, but above all he loved his mom and dad the most (From Maddox Ritch's Obituary at Raymer Funeral Home).
Links about Maddox Ritch:
Obituary:
News:
- Police believe they've found body of missing Maddox Ritch, an autistic 6-year-old boy (USA Today, September 27, 2018)
- Medical examiner confirms boy found dead in creek was Maddox Ritch (WFTV9, September 27, 2018)
- Police offer update weeks after 6-year-old Gastonia boy found in creek (Fox8, October 19, 2018)
With heavy hearts we announce a body believed to be 6-year-old Maddox Ritch was found at approximately 1 p.m. off of Marietta Street/Old Dallas Highway in Gastonia. Maddox’s parents have been notified of the discovery. The investigation is ongoing.— FBI Charlotte (@FBICharlotte) September 27, 2018
