‘Heartbreaking’
Navajo authorities find the body of 1-year-old boy
A toddler was found dead Friday morning in a remote area near Shiprock, the day after his mother showed up to a house saying she had left her two children with a man to get help when their truck got stuck, according to the Navajo Police Department.
Rescue crews found 21-month-old Kyron Kelewood around 11 a.m. in the area of Horseshoe Canyon, according to a statement posted on the official Facebook page of the department. By that time, officers had already found the man and the other child, an infant, in another area and the infant was taken to a hospital.
“The details of when Kyron separated from the adults is still under investigation,” the release states.
The boy’s disappearance and death is now being investigated by the FBI and Navajo Division of Public Safety.
“We find strength and solace in the power of participation of our community and the commitment of all first responders as we bring closure to the family,” Navajo Chief of Police Phillip Francisco said.
According to the statement, Navajo police responded to Horseshoe Canyon on Thursday after a woman, severely dehydrated, approached a home and asked for help.
The woman took officers to where she had left her children and another man when their truck got stuck Wednesday night, about nine miles northeast of Shiprock.
According to the release, Kyron was not found at that time and a search party was organized to locate the toddler.
“On behalf of the Navajo People, we offer our condolences, support, and comfort to the community of Shiprock. This has been a heartbreaking experience for the community,” Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said in the release. “Let us come together today to pray for our children and families throughout the Navajo Nation. We also extend our appreciation to the volunteers, community members, local leaders, Navajo Police Department and county law enforcement for their efforts and support.”