“Search Continues for Missing Children in Deadly PA Flood”

A search is underway in Bucks County, Pennsylvania for a 9-month-old boy and his 2-year-old sister who were swept away in a flash flood on Saturday. The children, identified as Matilda “Mattie” Sheils and Conrad Sheils, were in a car with their mother and other family members when the floodwaters overtook the vehicle. The mother’s body was recovered on Sunday, but the children remain missing.

The search is focused on Hough’s Creek, just south of Upper Makefield Township. Chief Tim Brewer of the Upper Makefield Fire Company stated that a significant number of resources and teams have been deployed to aid in the search. The missing children’s father, Jim Sheils, released a statement expressing gratitude for the support and prayers of the community.

The family, who hails from Charlestown, South Carolina, was visiting relatives in Bucks County when tragedy struck. Torrential rains caused Hough’s Creek to overflow, trapping the family in their car on Route 532. The father, grandmother, and 4-year-old brother were able to escape the vehicle and were found alive. However, the mother and two younger children were swept away by the floodwaters.

In addition to the missing children, four other individuals lost their lives in the flooding. The victims have been identified as Enzo Dipero, Linda Dipero, Susan Barnhardt, and Uko Love. The cause of death for all victims was confirmed as drowning.

Search-and-rescue crews are utilizing K-9 units, divers, aircraft, and drones in their search efforts. At least 75 crew members are currently involved, with additional personnel and equipment being brought in to assist. The search is expected to be a massive undertaking, covering the entire creek.

Meanwhile, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has declared a state of emergency for parts of Warren County, where flooding has also caused significant damage. Cleanup efforts are underway, and residents are urged to document all storm-related expenses. At least $50 million in storm damage has been reported in Suffolk County, New York, where heavy rain overwhelmed storm drains and caused road damage.

As the search continues for the missing children in Pennsylvania, the community rallies together to support the grieving family and hopes for a positive outcome..