South Carolina infant found alive after being buried in dog crate for 24 hours

Authorities in Lexington County, South Carolina, found an 11-month-old infant alive after he had been buried in a dog crate for about 24 hours, according to CBS News and PBS NewsHour.

The baby, identified as Koah Sharp, was reported missing on Monday while in the care of his grandmother. His father, Michael Comer, took the child and was later arrested on a burglary charge, the Lexington County Sheriff's Department said.

Nearly 100 first responders searched the area, eventually discovering freshly disturbed soil near the boy's grandfather's home. Upon digging, officers heard the infant crying and found him "clinging to life" inside the crate wrapped in a towel, which likely created an air pocket allowing him to breathe, the sheriff said.

Koah was immediately taken to a hospital for medical treatment. The sheriff's office is working with prosecutors to determine further charges related to the case, which remains under investigation.

Family members expressed relief upon the infant's rescue, with the sheriff describing the baby's cries as a hopeful sign during the rescue operation.