Within a few months, four autistic children drown in the greater Houston area

Harris County – The recent drownings of autistic children in the greater Houston area within a matter of months have brought to light the alarming fact that these children are at a much higher risk of drowning.

According to the Autism Society, drowning is the leading cause of death among children with autism, with 91% of deaths occurring in children ages 14 or younger. Children with autism are 160 times more likely to drown than their neurotypical peers, highlighting the urgent need for vigilance and safety measures.

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Four tragic incidents between June and September underline the urgent need for awareness-raising and preventive measures.

September 22: 5-year-old drowns in retention basin

On September 22, a five-year-old autistic child drowned in a retention pond in Harris County. Authorities found the child after responding to reports of a missing person in the 20500 block of Keegans Ledge Lane, but unfortunately the child was pronounced dead at the scene.

September 18: 7-year-old found in neighbor’s pool

Just days earlier, on September 18, a 7-year-old autistic boy was found unconscious in a neighbor's pool on Fox Forest Trail in Harris County. Emergency responders arrived shortly after 6:45 p.m. and attempted CPR, but were unable to revive him.

August 25: 8-year-old found in lake

In early August, 8-year-old Ryan Akabusi was found in a lake in Fort Bend County after being reported missing. His mother noticed his disappearance early in the morning and he was later caught on surveillance footage running through the neighborhood before extensive search efforts led to his tragic discovery.

June 27: 12-year-old drowns in Fulshear

Aisha Adebayo (Photo: Fulshear Police Department)

In June, 12-year-old Aisha Adebayo drowned in a Fulshear lake after sneaking out of her home late at night. A massive community search effort culminated in the heartbreaking confirmation of her accidental drowning.