Menands, New York — A heartbreaking search for a missing 7-year-old boy with autism has ended in tragedy after authorities discovered his body in a neighbor’s swimming pool just steps from where he was last seen.
Police said the child, Harbe Nagi, had been missing for two days before his body surfaced in a backyard pool that investigators had previously searched multiple times during the extensive rescue effort.
The discovery has devastated the boy’s family and the surrounding community, many of whom had joined search teams hoping to bring him home safely.
Search Ends with Tragic Discovery
According to the Menands Police Department, Harbe was reported missing on the afternoon of June 28 after disappearing from the Park Drive area approximately 10 minutes earlier.
Emergency crews, law enforcement officers, and volunteers immediately launched an extensive search of the surrounding neighborhood.
Authorities said Harbe was visiting the area with his mother and did not live in the neighborhood, making the search even more challenging.
Police also noted that the child was non-verbal and had autism, factors that significantly increased concerns for his safety.
On Tuesday, officers confirmed that Harbe had been found deceased.
“The circumstances surrounding Harbe’s death remain under investigation,” the Menands Police Department said in a statement.
Officials later confirmed that the child died as the result of an accidental drowning.
Pool Had Been Searched Multiple Times
Investigators said Harbe’s body was discovered in a backyard swimming pool located very close to the home where he had last been seen.
According to police, search teams had already examined the same pool several times during the investigation.
However, officials explained that cloudy water prevented searchers from seeing the child’s body at the bottom of the pool.
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Police said the body later rose to the surface, leading to its discovery Tuesday morning.
The revelation has raised questions about the challenges first responders face when searching bodies of water with poor visibility.
Family Never Gave Up Hope
Throughout the search, Harbe’s family remained hopeful that he would be found safely. Authorities described him as having a strong interest in water, climbing, and being outdoors.
Search teams even brought ice cream trucks into the neighborhood, hoping the familiar music would encourage the young boy to come out if he was nearby.
On Monday, family members announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to Harbe’s safe return.
His uncle, Adam Alharbi, who serves as mayor of Hamtramck, Michigan, later shared the devastating news with supporters.
“We are devastated to share that he has been found deceased. Thank you to everyone who helped in the search.”
Alharbi also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support the family received during the difficult search.
“I would like to sincerely thank everyone for the outpouring of love, prayers, and condolences we have received during this incredibly difficult time.”
Community Mourns Young Boy’s Loss
Family members said Harbe had wandered away while visiting friends with his mother.
According to his uncle, the child had previously attempted to leave the house on several occasions, but family members had always been able to bring him back safely.
Police emphasized throughout the search that there was no indication of criminal activity connected to the disappearance.
Funeral services for Harbe are scheduled to be held in Latham, New York, as family members prepare to say goodbye.
The tragic case has also renewed conversations about water safety, search procedures, and the unique challenges families and first responders face when children with autism go missing.
Our thoughts are with Harbe’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. What are your thoughts on improving community awareness and safety measures for children with autism? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.