Body of missing 5-year-old boy found in Idaho canal

On Tuesday, Idaho police reported the discovery of a body believed to be that of a 5-year-old boy who went missing after leaving his birthday party.

Late Monday afternoon, Matthew Glynn was last seen at his home celebrating his fifth birthday with family and friends, according to Boise police.

A large-scale search effort led to the discovery of a body in a canal on Tuesday. The Ada County Coroner’s Office will confirm the identity, but it is believed to be Matthew, police stated.

The body was found in a canal approximately half a mile north of where Matthew disappeared. Police indicated there were no signs of foul play.

New information from Idaho State Police on the missing boy. We now know more about him.
Matthew Glynn (5) has been missing since last night. He is still missing this morning. He was last seen in the area of State Street and Alamosa in Boise. pic.twitter.com/nSjOy3l2V1

— Maggie O'Mara (@maggieKTVB7) August 6, 2024

Boise Police Chief Ron Winegar expressed sorrow over the development, thanking partners and the public for their assistance.

Officers responded to the report of the missing child shortly before 6 p.m. local time. Matthew, who was nonverbal and had autism, was wearing Batman pyjamas when last seen, according to Winegar.

Authorities launched a comprehensive search using drones, ATVs, UTVs, and tracking dogs, focusing on local waterways due to Matthew’s attraction to water. Door-to-door searches were also conducted.

Ron Christensen from Idaho Mountain Search and Rescue mentioned that 30 personnel, including mountain bike teams, were involved in the search on Monday night. UTVs with flashing lights played “Wheels on the Bus” through speakers to attract Matthew.

The Boise Fire Department also participated in the search efforts in Idaho canal.

Boise Fire Chief Mark Niemeyer extended his deepest condolences to Matthew’s family, acknowledging the tragic outcome.