A heartbreaking case is unfolding in New York City, where police say a 2-year-old boy is missing and may have been thrown into the Bronx River by his father.
The search for the toddler started early Monday morning and has now turned into a possible homicide investigation.
The boy, identified as Major Cox, was reported missing on Monday around 5:00 a.m. Police say his father, 38-year-old Shamar Cox, was taken into custody near the scene.
He had been seen walking along the water near the Bronx River Parkway and 180th Street, appearing confused and partially clothed.
According to officials, Cox made statements that led police to fear the worst. Investigators say he gave conflicting stories, but one version suggested he may have thrown the child into the river. Because of this, the NYPD Emergency Services Unit and divers quickly began searching the water.
A witness who saw Cox before the arrest told police that he seemed upset and was talking to himself. The witness also mentioned seeing Cox with a small child the night before. The next morning, the boy was nowhere to be found.
Police recovered a stroller near the riverbank, which they believe belongs to Major. The toddler has not been seen since Sunday night, and his disappearance has shaken the local community.
The NYPD’s Special Victims Division is leading the investigation. So far, they are treating the case as a possible child homicide, although they are still hoping the boy might be found alive. Divers have been in and out of the water, searching for any sign of the child, but so far, nothing has been recovered.
Family members of the boy are devastated and are cooperating with investigators. They say the father had a history of mental health struggles, but never expected anything like this to happen.
A relative told reporters that Cox had been dealing with stress and personal problems, but no one thought he would harm his son.
As of now, Shamar Cox has not been officially charged in connection with his son’s disappearance. Police are waiting for more evidence before filing formal charges. They have, however, placed him under psychiatric evaluation, as his behavior at the time of arrest raised major concerns.
The community has come together in support of the family. Neighbors have left flowers and candles near the area where the boy was last seen.
Many are expressing frustration and sadness, saying that more needs to be done to help families struggling with mental health issues.
This case has also sparked renewed conversation about how the system handles custody disputes and mental health red flags.
Several community leaders have urged city officials to improve early intervention services and create more safety nets for children in risky home situations.
As the investigation continues, the police are urging anyone with information about the case to come forward. They are especially interested in speaking to people who may have seen the father and son on Sunday night or early Monday morning.
The NYPD says their top priority is finding Major and getting answers. They’ve set up a command post near the search area and continue to search both the land and water.
This is a developing story, and updates will be shared as soon as more information is available. Anyone with tips is encouraged to contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers line.
The search for Major continues, with both hope and fear hanging in the air. Police, family, and the community are holding on to any chance that he might still be found safe.