LYONS, Neb. (WOWT) – A 9-year-old boy with autism died this week after he got away from his school and was later found in nearby lagoon.

Kendrix Brehmer was a third-grader at Northeast Elementary School in Lyons, Neb.

He had nonverbal autism.

Monday afternoon, his father, Matthew Brehmer, told First Alert 6 that he got a call from the school’s superintendent, Lindsey Beaudette, that his son left the school during recess. Matthew said he was told Kendrix got out of the gate himself and took off running.

At the time of that call, his son’s whereabouts were still unknown. The father quickly took his four-wheeler around town, checking “every cornfield and every ditch.”

“I’ve never been more afraid in my life,” said Brehmer.

After about an hour, Matthew Brehmer’s uncle found Kendrix in the lagoon of a nearby park.

“I lost all feeling in my legs. Just collapsed to the ground. Just didn’t know what to do with myself at that moment,” said Brehmer.

The boy was taken to the hospital and later pronounced dead.

“He’s just a special kid. Everybody loved him. And he loved everyone.”

Kenny loved music. His dad said he taught himself how to play piano. He also loved water. Children with autism are often drawn to water, said his dad.

“I just don’t want this to happen to any more kids,” said Brehmer.

Brehmer is left with many questions, wondering why his son was able to get out in the first place and why no one could catch him.

“I just want answers. I want to know how he got away.”

The school’s superintendent sent First Alert 6 the following statement on Tuesday evening:

“Yesterday, a tragic accident occurred in our community.  Emergency responders provided assistance at the scene, and the student was transported for medical care. Our entire school community is heartbroken. We are keeping the student’s family in our thoughts as they process through the tragic event. We are also offering support services for students, staff, and families during this difficult time. The Lyons-Decatur school community is strong and caring, and we know we will continue to support one another in the days ahead. We are conducting our own investigation of the incident and cooperating fully with the appropriate authorities as they review the circumstances of the incident. Out of respect for the family and the ongoing process, no further information will be shared at this time. We are grateful for the compassion and understanding of our community.”