The close-knit community of Jekyll Island, Georgia, experienced a tragedy when they found the lifeless body of Connor Mathis, a beloved 16-year-old, on the southern edge of the island after he went missing
Connor disappeared from a church camp he was attending, and despite a rigorous search operation involving hundreds of volunteers and multiple local enforcement agencies, they located him in the water.
Who is Connor Mathis missing Georgia teen found dead in Glynn Academy on Jekyll Island in latest update news
A rising 11th grade student at Glynn Academy, Connor was reported missing on Monday evening after he failed to return to the religious camp at the designated time. A beloved member of the community, he was known for his radiant smile and his passion for basketball. Also Connor, who was living with high-functioning autism, touched the hearts of many around him, inspiring a considerable community-led search effort.
Search is suspended. Connor Mathis body has been found. 💔 pic.twitter.com/FIgT28sNgh
— AuntBelle (@K_BellePat) May 30, 2023
The search for Connor involved various agencies including the Georgia State Patrol, responsible for maintaining peace and order on Jekyll Island. The Patrol, Jekyll Island Fire Department, and other local agencies sought Connor overnight, employing state-of-the-art infrared camera technology both on the ground and from a helicopter.
Community effort in search operation for Connor Mathis
In an extraordinary show of community spirit, hundreds of volunteers joined forces with local, state, and federal officials in the search for the teenager. Their combined efforts, however, led to a tragic discovery. Connor Mathis was found in the water using sonar technology by deputies on a marine patrol boat aiding the search, as reported by the Camden County Sheriff’s Office.
Remembering Connor Mathis and his life
Friends and family remember Connor as a happy child, always beaming with a smile, who loved playing basketball with his local team. His diagnosis of high-functioning autism brought an added layer of depth to his character, motivating many in the community to join the search. Erica Johnson, a volunteer who gave up part of her vacation to join the search effort, told the local newspaper, “I have a cousin who has autism. I hope anybody would do it for him.”
School and community mourning over the loss of Connor Mathis
Connor’s tragic passing has left the Glynn Academy and the entire community in a state of mourning. Also the school has announced that it will have counselors available for the next few days to support the students and staff as they navigate this devastating loss.
As investigations continue, the cause of Connor’s death remains unclear. The community rallies around the Mathis family in their time of loss, this incident has highlighted the need for increased safety measures for teens with autism, especially in public and recreational areas. As Jekyll Island mourns the loss of one of its own, it is clear that Connor Mathis will forever be remembered in the hearts of those he touched.
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