Body found at park identified as missing child

JAMES ISLAND, SC(WCBD) — Charleston authorities have identified the body found at James Island County Park as Duffy McLemore, 3 of Ladson.

According to the coroner, McLemore suffered “what appears to be an accidental drowning.”

Police say the body was found at 10:03 p.m. in a “marshy area” of the park.

Saturday evening, police notified the public that authorities were searching the area for McLemore who was reported missing around 4:45 p.m.

“The Charleston Police Department, Charleston Fire Department, James Island Fire Department, Coast Guard, Charleston County Rescue, Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office and SLED participated in the search,” said Charles Francis with the Charleston Police Department.

“This is such a tragedy for this family and the community. The family needs our support and prayers,” Charles Francis with the Charleston Police Department said.

A press conference was held late Saturday night notifying the public about the findings. Mayor of Charleston, John Tecklenburg was at the press conference and gave his condolences to the family.