Multiple North Texas agencies joined the search after MJ Ashmead was reported missing Friday morning.
CELINA, Texas — A search for a missing 8-year-old boy in Celina ended Friday when authorities found his body in a pond near the Sutton Fields neighborhood, police said.
MJ Ashmead was reported missing about 9:30 a.m. from a home near Rostherne Drive. Celina police said the child had severe developmental disabilities and was last seen close to his home. By late morning, officers and firefighters had called in outside agencies to help search the neighborhood.
Crews searched on foot and used K-9 teams, drones, air support and dive teams. The search led authorities to a pond near Wilder Avenue and Sandown Drive. Police said MJ’s body was found around noon in water near the subdivision. Family members were notified shortly after the discovery.
John Thacker, a public information officer for the Celina Police Department, called the death a tragedy and said investigators had no reason to suspect foul play. “As neighbors and as first responders, the Celina Police Department and the Celina Fire Department, along with the entire city of Celina, extend our sincere condolences and prayers to this grieving family,” Thacker said.
The response included Celina police and fire crews, Texas Department of Public Safety air support, the Collin County Sheriff’s Office dive team, the Frisco Police Department K-9 unit, the Hickory Creek Police Department K-9 unit, the Prosper Police Department drone team, the Lewisville Fire Department dive team and Prosper ISD police.
Officials did not release more details about how MJ entered the pond or how long he had been missing before police were called. Thacker said the investigation was ongoing and that no further information would be released immediately out of respect for the family.
Police said the case remained under review Friday evening. The next public update is expected when investigators finish more of their work and the city is ready to release additional findings.
Author note: Last updated May 30, 2026.