CHARLES COUNTY, Md. — The Charles County Sheriff's Office confirmed Monday that a body found in Brandywine is 10-year-old Maddelynn Taylor Wallace, a young girl with autism who was reported missing on Saturday.
"Sheriff Troy Berry and the men and women of the CCSO are heartbroken to share the update that a body was recovered from a deep quarry a short time ago in the area that Maddelynn went missing," police say.
Maddelynn had autism and was nonverbal, she was last seen near her home in the 3900 block of Turner Road in Waldorf around 5:30 p.m.
Law enforcement and community members began searching for Maddelynn in the Malcolm area of Charles County, a heavily wooded area.
The Charles County Sheriff's Office utilized a search and rescue team including police K9’s, drones, ATV equipment and other tools, aided by the support of volunteers in the community.
The search focused on the many ponds and creeks in the wooded area surrounding her home where she was last seen.
Deputies say Maddelynn was found dead in a quarry Sunday.
"The Medical Examiners Office will confirm the identity and we will provide an update once available. Officers and detectives are continuing to investigate, although no foul play is suspected."
"Our deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers are with Maddelynn's family. Please pray for Maddelynn's family during this unthinkable tragedy", say police.
A GoFundMe was started by a family friend to help raise money for funeral and burial expenses. In less than 24 hours, the campaign had raised more than $9,000 toward the $10,000 goal.