Family expresses gratitude after body believed to be missing girl found; search for boy continues

The family of 2-year-old Matilda Sheils, who was swept away with another child in a sudden flash flood in Pennsylvania, has expressed their thankfulness following the discovery of a body, presumed to be hers.

This body was discovered on Friday evening, located in the Delaware River near a wastewater treatment facility in Philadelphia, approximately 30 miles (50 kilometers) from where Matilda was initially swept away, according to officials. An autopsy is planned by the Philadelphia medical examiner’s office. Meanwhile, the search for Matilda’s younger brother, 9-month-old Conrad, is still ongoing.

“Our hearts find some peace knowing that our dear Mattie has been returned to us. We fervently hope and pray for Conrad’s safe return,” the family communicated in a statement issued on Saturday by Upper Makefield Township police.

The family expressed ongoing thankfulness for the immense show of love, support, and concern they’ve received from both the community and nationwide, as rescue workers continue their diligent search for Matilda and Conrad.

“Your compassion and kindness are overwhelming. We are deeply humbled and thank you all,” the statement read.

The Sheils family, hailing from Charleston, South Carolina, was in the region visiting family and friends and were en route to a barbecue on July 15th when their vehicle was struck by a powerful flood wave. According to Fire Chief Tim Brewer of Upper Makefield, their mother, 32-year-old Katie Seley, was also a victim of the flood.

Jim Sheils, the children’s father, managed to reach safety with their 4-year-old son, while Seley and a grandmother attempted to save the other children. Tragically, Seley and the grandmother were also swept away, although the grandmother survived.

According to the Bucks County Coroner’s office, the flood claimed the lives of four additional people: Enzo Depiero, 78, and Linda Depiero, 74, from Newtown; Yuko Love, 64, from Newtown; and Susan Barnhart, 53, from Titusville, New Jersey.

The tragic loss of lives and the ongoing search for the children have drawn significant support, especially on social media, from the suburb located about 35 miles (60 kilometers) north of Philadelphia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pennsylvania Flash Flood Tragedy

More about Pennsylvania Flash Flood Tragedy

• Pennsylvania Flash Flood Coverage
• Upper Makefield Township Police Statements
• Support for Sheils Family
• In Memoriam: Katie Seley and Other Flood Victims
• Latest Updates on Missing Conrad