Authorities said the child was discovered near a river as investigators worked to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.
LUMBERTON, N.C. — Two teenagers have been charged in connection with the death of an 11-year-old boy whose body was found near a river in North Carolina, according to investigators.
The case has drawn widespread attention after authorities said the child was discovered with a towel around his neck near a waterway. Investigators launched a homicide investigation and later announced charges against two juvenile suspects. Officials have not released the identities of the accused because of their ages.
According to law enforcement officials, the boy was reported missing before his body was located near the river. Emergency responders and investigators searched the area while family members and community residents waited for updates. After the discovery, detectives secured the scene and began collecting evidence to determine exactly what happened in the hours before the child’s death.
Authorities said evidence gathered during the investigation led them to identify two teenage suspects. The juveniles were taken into custody and charged in connection with the case. Investigators have not publicly disclosed a possible motive, and officials said several aspects of the case remain under review. Detectives continue interviewing witnesses and examining physical evidence recovered from the area.
The death has shocked residents in the community, where neighbors described concern and sadness following news of the discovery. Law enforcement agencies have increased efforts to gather information while prosecutors review evidence related to the charges. Officials have urged the public to allow the investigation to proceed through the court system.
Because the suspects are juveniles, many court proceedings are expected to occur under rules that limit the public release of information. Authorities said additional details could emerge as hearings move forward and investigators complete forensic testing. The timeline leading up to the boy’s death remains a central focus of the investigation.
Community members have continued to mourn the loss of the child while awaiting answers from investigators. Local leaders and residents have expressed support for the family as the criminal case advances through the justice system.
The investigation remained active Monday, with detectives continuing to review evidence and prepare the case for prosecution. Future court hearings are expected to determine the next steps for the juvenile defendants.
Author note: Last updated June 1, 2026.