Nine-year-old autistic boy runs away from school and drowns in a lagoon

The community of Lyons, Nebraska, is in shock over the death of Kendrix Brehmer, a 9-year-old boy with autism, found dead in a pond near his elementary school. This incident has prompted residents to call for improved school safety procedures and immediate action in public areas perceived as dangerous.

The incident occurred on the morning of Monday, April 28, 2025, at Northeast Elementary School. Superintendent Lindsey Beaudette said the child, a third-grader, left school grounds through a gate in the playground during recess and ran off. Staff were unable to apprehend him.

Matthew Brehmer, the boy's father, began a search of the tiny town of Lyons, which has just over 800 residents . About an hour later, an uncle discovered the body floating in the Brink Memorial Park lagoon, located a short distance from the school. Kendrix was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

“I lost feeling in my legs. I collapsed to the ground. I had no idea how to react. I just long for answers. I want to understand how he got free,” Matthew Brehmer told a local newspaper.

On Tuesday, Superintendent Beaudette issued a statement extending her condolences and mentioning that an internal investigation has been launched. She also noted that the institution is working closely with local authorities. No further details have been released at this time as the case is under investigation.

Residents and relatives of the victim have asked the Lyons City Council to empty the pond where the unfortunate incident occurred, as they consider it a danger to children. Tracy Stromquist, Kendrix's great-aunt, started a public petition that has garnered more than 130 signatures, requesting that the hazard be removed from Brink Memorial Park.

"No family should have to face this situation. We urge the mayor and council to act urgently. The park must be a safe space," the statement reads.

This incident is not unique. In February 2024, a 10-year-old boy named Mason Tiedgen also drowned in the same pond. Mason's mother, Erin Tiedgen, also joined the initiative to call for its removal.