The community of Rocky Ford, Colorado, situated roughly 160 miles south of Denver, is shocked after the tragic loss of three-year-old Amari Galan. The toddler, diagnosed with autism, vanished from his residence early on Saturday, May 18, 2024. His disappearance spurred a comprehensive search by numerous law enforcement agencies and local residents.
Witnesses reported last seeing Amari around 4 a.m., exiting his Washington Street home dressed only in a diaper. His sudden disappearance elicited a swift response from local law enforcement agencies. They launched a search operation using drones, canine units, and ground personnel but found the child’s body in the Catlin Canal several miles from his home at approximately 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 19.
The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) issued a press release, extending condolences to Amari Galan’s family. The identification of the body was later corroborated by the Otero County Coroner and the child’s family.
In a Facebook message, Rocky Ford Mayor Duane L. Gurule extended his sympathies, writing, “May we come together as a community to offer our support, comfort, and strength to the family of Amari Galan during this heartbreaking time.” He commended the dedication, professionalism, and compassion of the law enforcement and search-and-rescue teams involved in the operation.
Authorities surmise that Amari left his home on foot in the early morning. His young age, minimal clothing, and autism diagnosis, which could make him less responsive to search efforts, added urgency to the situation.
Over the course of Saturday and Sunday, search parties combed the area around Amari’s home, with particular attention paid to the Catlin Canal that runs behind the residence. This waterway, a significant local landmark, became the primary focus of the search as officers followed its course downstream.
Search teams utilized drones for aerial surveillance and dogs to cover the ground, while local volunteers also joined the search, reflecting Rocky Ford’s community spirit. Despite these comprehensive efforts, it was ground personnel who eventually found Amari’s body in the canal, bringing the search to a heartbreaking conclusion.
Echoing the sentiments of the town, Mayor Gurule urged unity and support in his statement. “Our thoughts are with you,” he added, encapsulating the shared grief of the community.
As the town mourns, it also acknowledges the tireless work of those involved in the search operation. The CBI’s statement praised the commitment, professionalism, and compassion displayed by all participants. “Your dedication, professionalism, and compassion in the face of such a tragic situation have not gone unnoticed,” the statement read.
