Kansas City, Missouri — A Missouri family is mourning the heartbreaking loss of their 10-year-old son after authorities say he wandered away from home while sleepwalking and was later found drowned in a nearby pond.
Jackson S. Georgari disappeared from his family’s Kansas City home around midnight last Friday, leading relatives to immediately contact police after realizing he was missing.
According to investigators, Jackson had a history of sleepwalking, something his family said had happened on previous occasions.
Family Says Sleepwalking Had Happened Before
Loved ones told police that Jackson had experienced episodes of sleepwalking in the past, including one incident while the family was living in California.
His sister, Semina Richard, recalled how strangers previously found him safely after he wandered away during his sleep.
“The first time it happened was when we were in San Diego, and he (sleepwalked) and then someone found him on the street and they called 911. They brought him over and he was found safely,” she said.
After the family relocated from San Diego to Missouri, another similar incident occurred.
“The second time, it was here. … We recently moved here from San Diego to Missouri. And he ran away again, and he went, like, all the way up there where his school is at because that’s the only place he recognizes,” she said.
Family members believe Jackson likely followed a familiar route near wooded areas, streams and ponds that he recognized from riding the school bus each day.
Search Ends in Tragedy
Authorities later discovered Jackson’s body in a pond located along the route he typically traveled to school, approximately half a mile from where he disappeared.
According to his family, Jackson did not know how to swim, making the discovery especially devastating. Police have stated that there is currently no indication of foul play in the case.
The medical examiner will determine the official cause and manner of death once the investigation is complete.
Remembered as a Bright and Caring Student
Jackson’s family described him as a kind, generous and loving son, brother, nephew and grandson who brought joy to those around him.
A GoFundMe campaign created to support the family says he was a gifted student who loved learning and always looked forward to school.
“At school, Jackson was known to be a friendly, hardworking student who helped his peers when needed. Jackson made many friends who enjoyed playing soccer and football with.”
The fundraiser also noted that Jackson had recently been accepted into an accelerated middle school-level math program, something he had been eagerly anticipating.
“He was looking forward to the upcoming school year, going into his last year of elementary school [and] got accepted into an accelerated math program at middle school level.”
Community Rallies Around Grieving Family
According to the fundraiser, Jackson dreamed of one day becoming either a firefighter or a professional athlete.
His family said he was always surrounded by love, laughter and encouragement.
As of Monday afternoon, the online fundraiser had received more than $13,000, with donations helping cover funeral expenses and support the grieving family during this difficult time.
While the investigation continues, those who knew Jackson are remembering him not for the tragedy, but for his bright future, caring heart and the happiness he brought to everyone around him.
What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking story? Have you or someone you know experienced sleepwalking? Share your thoughts and condolences respectfully in the comments below.
