Maryland Flash Floods Sweep 13-Year-Old Into Storm Drain, Community Mourns

A 13-year-old boy named Mason tragically died after being swept into a storm drain during flash flooding in Mount Airy, Maryland, on July 31. The boy was playing near his family’s apartment with his brother when heavy rain turned the area into a fast-moving river, pushing him into the drainage pipe. Despite the rapid response and tireless efforts of about 50 firefighters and police officers who worked for over 45 minutes to rescue him, Mason could not be saved. The incident occurred amid severe storms that caused up to five inches of rain in Mount Airy and widespread flooding across the Northeast, leading to significant disruptions including flooded transport and power outages. The Mount Airy community is mourning deeply, with neighbors and family describing Mason as a kind and optimistic boy, and rallying to support his grieving family through fundraising efforts. Officials and first responders have urged the public to take flood warnings seriously, highlighting the dangerous and deadly nature of floodwaters.