Tragic Loss in Mount Airy: 13-Year-Old Mason Kearns Remembered After Flash Flood Takes Young Life
MOUNT AIRY, MD — A deep sense of sorrow hangs over the town of Mount Airy as the community grapples with the heartbreaking loss of 13-year-old Mason Kearns, whose life was tragically cut short during Thursday’s sudden and intense flash flooding. Mason, a bright and beloved middle school student, was swept into a storm drain as powerful floodwaters surged through the area during an afternoon deluge, turning a typical summer day into an unspeakable tragedy.
Emergency crews responded swiftly after reports surfaced that a child had been pulled into rushing waters near a residential neighborhood. Despite a massive search effort involving police, fire departments, and volunteers, Mason was later found unresponsive and tragically pronounced dead. The harrowing incident has left residents shaken, parents fearful, and a family utterly devastated by the unimaginable loss of their young son.
Mason Kearns was just 13 years old—a vibrant, curious, and kind-hearted boy who had a whole life ahead of him. Known for his infectious smile, adventurous spirit, and boundless energy, Mason touched many lives in his short time on Earth. Friends describe him as someone who could brighten any room, a compassionate classmate who always stood up for others, and a loving son and brother who brought joy to his family every single day.
He was a student at Mount Airy Middle School, where teachers and peers alike are mourning deeply. Grief counselors have been made available on campus, as the school community comes to terms with a loss that words can hardly express. Mason was known for his love of science, sports—especially soccer—and his endless curiosity about the world. His teachers recall a student who was not only eager to learn but always ready to lend a helping hand.
In a statement released by Mason’s family, they wrote:
“Mason was the light of our lives. He was sweet, goofy, smart, and brave. His loss has shattered our hearts, but we are grateful for the love and support we’ve received from the community. We ask for privacy as we begin the impossible task of grieving and healing.”
Neighbors and local leaders have responded with an outpouring of support, organizing memorial vigils and community fundraisers to assist the family in the wake of the tragedy. A makeshift memorial near the storm drain where the incident occurred has grown with flowers, candles, handwritten notes, and stuffed animals—a tender expression of collective mourning from those who knew and loved Mason and from strangers moved by his story.
Mount Airy Mayor Patrick Rockinberg offered heartfelt condolences in a public statement, saying:
“This is a tragic reminder of how quickly life can change. Mason’s death is a loss to our entire town. As we rally around the Kearns family, we must also take steps to ensure our infrastructure is safe and that no family ever has to face a tragedy like this again.”
Local officials are now reviewing stormwater management systems and public safety protocols, with growing calls from the community for improvements to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The unusually intense storms that swept through central Maryland on Thursday resulted in widespread flooding, road closures, and property damage—but none of that compares to the human loss Mount Airy has suffered.
As the town begins to heal, plans are underway for a public memorial service to celebrate Mason’s life—a life filled with promise, kindness, and light. His family hopes to establish a memorial fund in his name to support youth programs, outdoor education, and flood safety awareness, causes that reflect Mason’s curious mind and generous heart.
In moments like these, words often fall short. But one thing remains clear: Mason Kearns’ spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, in the community that mourns him, and in the love that will never fade.
Rest in peace, Mason. Your time with us was far too short, but your light will shine forever.
