A mother’s heart-wrenching journey through the pain of losing her son to a wandering incident.
What Happened
Jac Carper, a 4-year-old boy with autism, tragically passed away after wandering from his home on the night of August 12, 2024. Jac, who had a profound love for water, slipped away unnoticed during a brief moment of distraction by his grandmother, who was caring for him and his two sisters. Despite special locks placed on the doors to prevent wandering, Jac managed to escape and made his way to a nearby pool, where he was found unresponsive in the water. His family’s heartbreak deepened as they realized that Jac, who had never shown previous signs of wandering, had become one of the many children on the autism spectrum attracted to water.
Who Is Jac Carper?
Jac, whose full name was Joseph Alan Carper II, was a joyful and affectionate 4-year-old who communicated through hugs and giggles. While non-verbal, he expressed himself in his own unique way, offering his family immense love. Jac’s fascination with water was well-known to his parents; it was a calming sensory escape for him. Despite the tragedy, Jac’s family remembers him as a radiant soul with his own rhythm and logic, someone who taught them invaluable lessons in his short life.
Background or Timeline
- February 2021: Jac endured a difficult medical period, including a severe infection that led to complications, but he was always surrounded by his family’s love and support.
- August 12, 2024: Jac wandered from his home and found his way to a neighbor’s pool, where he tragically drowned.
- August 2025: The family continues to honor Jac’s memory through the “Raising Jac” page, hoping to raise awareness and prevent other families from facing the same loss.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The family’s pain was shared by many after Jac’s tragic death, as his mother, Shannon Carper, used her social media platform to connect with other parents who had lost children to wandering incidents. The “Raising Jac” page has become a place of solace and awareness for families navigating similar struggles. Advocates for children with autism, the National Autism Association, and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) have highlighted Jac’s case to stress the importance of vigilance and the urgency of public involvement in such tragedies.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
NCMEC and the National Autism Association have reiterated the need for a more proactive approach to addressing the dangers of wandering, especially among children with autism. Their statements emphasize the critical role of both parents and the broader community in preventing such incidents by staying vigilant and informed. The Carper family hopes their son’s story will inspire others to take preventative measures seriously.
Closing
Jac’s death is a reminder of the ongoing risks facing children with autism, particularly those drawn to water. Shannon Carper’s hope is that by sharing her family’s tragedy, Jac’s legacy will continue to live on and help others protect their children from similar risks. This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
