KATY, TEXAS – The community of Katy is in mourning after the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that 5-year-old Edward Hall, the subject of an intensive search and an AMBER Alert, was found deceased early Monday morning.

The Disappearance

Edward Hall was first reported missing at approximately 5:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 19, 2026. He was last seen at his home in the 3800 block of Ryans Rock Court, located in a residential neighborhood in the Katy area.

Authorities immediately issued an AMBER Alert, noting that Edward was autistic and may have been drawn toward water—a common behavior known as “wandering” or “elopement” in children with autism. Local law enforcement, along with hundreds of community volunteers, spent Sunday scouring the Cinco Ranch area, focusing on local parks, green spaces, and nearby bodies of water.

Discovery by Texas EquuSearch

The search continued through the night and into the early hours of Monday morning. At approximately 1:43 a.m. on July 20, members of **Texas EquuSearch Search & Recovery**, a non-profit organization specializing in missing persons, located Edward’s body in a lake near his home.

The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office released a statement shortly after the discovery:
> *”Edward’s body was located by Texas EquuSearch Search & Recovery at approximately 1:43 a.m. on Monday, July 20, 2026, in a lake near his home. His family has been notified. At this time, investigators have found no signs of foul play.”*

Investigation and Community Response

While the investigation remains ongoing, preliminary findings suggest the death was a tragic accident. Sheriff Eric Fagan extended his “sincere gratitude” to Texas EquuSearch for their invaluable assistance during the high-stakes search.

The news has sent waves of grief through the Fort Bend County community. Neighbors and local organizations have begun offering prayers and support for the Hall family. Safety advocates are using this tragedy as a somber reminder of the dangers water poses to children with autism, who are nearly 160 times more likely to die from drowning than the general pediatric population.

Official Statement

The Sheriff’s Office concluded their update with a message to the public:
> *”Our thoughts and prayers are with Eddie and his family during this difficult time.”*

No further details regarding memorial services have been released. Authorities continue to ask for privacy for the family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.