Body of 7-year-old who went missing near Orlando found in lake

The massive search for a 7-year-old who went missing near Orlando ended in tragedy when his body was found in a lake Tuesday, authorities said.

Emerson Felix had disappeared Monday night near his home in Orange County, setting off a massive search.

Watch NBC6 free wherever you are

>

  WATCH HERE

But on Tuesday morning, Orange County Sheriff's Office officials said his body was found in the water near his home.

"Our detectives are still looking into how this tragedy occurred," the sheriff's office said in a post on X. "We mourn Emerson’s loss and extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to his family, his classmates and all who love him."

Get local news you need to know to start your day with NBC 6's News Headlines newsletter.

>

  SIGN UP

UPDATE: We are devastated to inform you that our deputies have found Emerson Felix, deceased, in a body of water near his home where he was reported missing. Our detectives are still looking into how this tragedy occurred.

We mourn Emerson’s loss and extend our heartfelt… pic.twitter.com/v1aVePu450

— Orange County Sheriff's Office (@OrangeCoSheriff) October 15, 2024