UPDATE 7/20/2026: On Friday, July 17, 2026, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a missing 9-year-old child with autism in the Hollywood area.
A coordinated search quickly began with the assistance of the Maryland State Police Leonardtown Barrack, Maryland Natural Resources Police, Maryland State Police Aviation Command (Trooper 7), the St. Mary’s County Department of Emergency Services and multiple local fire and EMS agencies.
The child was located in a nearby body of water. Without hesitation, Deputy Matthew Camp entered the water, swam to the child, and brought him safely to shore. The child was evaluated by medical personnel at the scene and was reunited with his family. We are grateful to share that he is doing well.
This body-worn camera footage captures just a portion of the teamwork, professionalism, and courage displayed by first responders during this incident. We are grateful for the positive outcome and proud of the dedication shown by all who responded.
UPDATE @ 4:07 P.M.: Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office quickly observed the child in the water and jumped in to remove him.
Hollywood VFD Ambulance 799 and Medic 103 evaluated the child on the scene, and later obtained care refusal forms from the mother/child. NO injuries are reported.
All fire and rescue units have returned to service.
UPDATE 7/17/2026: St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Deputies located and rescued the child from the water.
The child’s condition is unknown at this time. All units except one ambulance and medic unit has been canceled and placed in service.
EMS and paramedics remain on scene to assist police and evaluate the child.
Updates will be provided when they become available.
7/17/2026: On Friday, July 17, 2026, at approximately 3:00 p.m., police were dispatched to the 26000 block of Captains Point Lane in Hollywood, for the reported missing child.
The 911 caller reported their 9-year-old son, who is autistic and non-verbal, has been missing for approximately 15 minutes.
Firefighters and emergency medical services from Bay District, Hollywood, Leonardtown, Solomons, Mechanicsville and Seventh District have been dispatched to the scene.
Updates will be provided when they become available.
