Missing Baby Found Alive After Being Buried in Dog Crate in Lexington County, South Carolina

an empty small wire animal crate sitting on a patch of freshly dug dirt surrounded by fallen pine needles and dry autumn leaves in a wooded area, with yellow bo

AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.

11-Month-Old Missing Baby Discovered Alive in Shallow Grave

Koah Sharpe, an 11-month-old baby boy, was found alive on November 10, 2026, after a search that began when he was reported missing in Lexington County, South Carolina. Law enforcement officials described the outcome as a "joyful" discovery following intensive search efforts.

Details of the Disappearance

According to Lexington County Sheriff Bryan Koon, Koah was taken by his father, Michael Comer, on Monday morning. At the time, Koah was in the care of Comer's mother, who left the residence to run an errand while another caregiver was en route. When the caregiver arrived, both Michael Comer and the child were missing.

Search Efforts by Law Enforcement

Authorities, including the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, joined the search for Koah. A team of nearly 100 police officers, firefighters, and other officials participated. During the investigation, Comer was arrested late Monday on a burglary charge after being found in an outbuilding. However, the baby was not with him at that time.

Discovery of the Baby

The following afternoon, searchers discovered freshly disturbed earth about 50 yards into the woods near the home of Comer's father. Upon investigating, they found a dog crate, approximately 2 feet by 2 feet, buried in a shallow hole. Sheriff Koon stated that as searchers began to dig, they could hear Koah crying. Inside the crate, wrapped in a towel, Koah was found alive, reportedly having survived nearly 24 hours underground.

Survival and Recovery

Officials believe several factors contributed to Koah's survival, including the crate's design, which likely allowed enough air to circulate, and the towel, which may have created an air pocket. Cooler weather also played a role, according to Sheriff Koon. Koah was transported to a hospital for care after being rescued and was reportedly screaming, which authorities cited as a positive sign.

Ongoing Investigation

At the time of reporting, authorities were working with the prosecutor's office regarding potential charges. It was not clear if Michael Comer had obtained legal representation. Further details about upcoming legal proceedings have yet to be released.