Missing 11-month-old baby found buried alive in a crate in South Carolina

What the report says

An 11-month-old boy was found alive in South Carolina after authorities said he had been buried in a crate near his father’s home, according to the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department and remarks from Sheriff Jay Koon. The child, Koah Sharpe, had been reported missing since Monday after being taken from his mother’s home by his father, Michael Comer, 25. Comer was already under arrest on a burglary charge when the search intensified, but the baby was not with him.

Officials said a large search effort involving police and fire personnel led rescuers to woods near the father’s home on Tuesday, where they noticed disturbed soil and then heard the child crying. Koon said the boy appeared to have been there for about a day and was described as clinging to life. He was taken to hospital and was receiving care, with the sheriff saying he hoped the infant would make a full recovery.

Police have not yet said what additional charges Comer may face. The BBC report said authorities believe the crate may have helped provide some air, while cooler weather may have reduced the risk of overheating. Court records cited by the BBC also show Comer previously pleaded guilty to domestic violence charges. The case has drawn attention because of the child’s age, the circumstances of the rescue, and the ongoing investigation.