An 11-month-old South Carolina infant, Koah Sharp, was rescued alive on Tuesday after being buried underground in a dog crate for approximately 24 hours, authorities confirmed. The child’s father, Michael Comer, 25, has been charged with attempted murder, along with additional counts including burglary, unlawful conduct toward a child, and custodial interference, according to the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department.
Rescuers discovered Koah buried about a foot underground in a wire dog crate on a property near Batesburg-Leesville. The infant was wrapped in a towel, which authorities believe created an air pocket, aiding his survival. Sheriff Jay Koon stated that cool temperatures likely contributed to the child’s ability to endure the ordeal. Koah was found crying and covered in dirt before being freed and rushed to medical care, where he was described as "clinging to life." He was discharged from the hospital on Tuesday night and is expected to make a full recovery.
Timeline of Events
On Monday, November 9, Koah was in the care of his paternal grandmother, Patricia Comer, who left him briefly with his father, Michael Comer, while arranging for another caregiver to arrive. By the time the caregiver arrived, both Michael Comer and the infant were missing. Concerned, Patricia Comer contacted 911 to report the child’s disappearance. Authorities launched an extensive search involving over 100 law enforcement personnel, including the FBI, ATF, and local first responders.
Michael Comer was arrested on Monday night after being found hiding in an outbuilding in Batesburg-Leesville. He was initially charged with burglary in connection with the incident. The search continued into Tuesday, when rescuers located freshly disturbed soil near the grandfather’s property and heard cries from below ground. Koah was unearthed and transported for emergency medical treatment.
Legal Charges and Background
Comer faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, which carries significant penalties under South Carolina law. The burglary charge stems from his presence in the outbuilding at the time of his arrest. Authorities have not disclosed a motive for the alleged crime, though Sheriff Koon noted that Koah’s parents "have had some situations" in the past. Comer was previously sentenced to probation in October after pleading guilty to domestic violence involving the boy’s mother.
Koah’s mother has custody of the child, according to family statements. The infant is currently with family members following his hospital discharge.
Factors Contributing to Survival
Investigators attribute Koah’s survival to several factors: the cool weather conditions, the towel wrapped around the crate creating an air pocket, and the relatively shallow burial depth. Sheriff Koon emphasized the urgency of the rescue effort, stating that responders raced to free the child once his cries were detected. The case has drawn widespread attention due to the extreme nature of the alleged act and the child’s unexpected survival.