Missing boys found submerged in water near Kandiyohi Co. fairgrounds

WILLMAR, Minn. (KMSP) - Willmar police confirmed water search crews found two boys submerged in shallow water near the dock by the entrance to the Kandiyohi County Fairgrounds, about four hours after they were reported missing Tuesday evening.

There was no indication of foul play.

Idris Hussein, 10, and Ahmed Hashi, 11, were last seen near the dock on the northeast entrance of the fairgrounds. At 5:52 p.m. on Tuesday, a parent reported the boys missing to Willmar police and said her son and friend had left a home near the fairgrounds. While looking for the pair, she found one of their shoes floating in Foot Lake near the dock at the entrance.

After searching the area and the boys' homes, sheriff and rescue personnel conducted a water search. Neighbors were asked to check their homes and yards through the Everbridge notification system and on social media.

At 10:02 p.m., the water search team found the two boys submerged in shallow water near the fairground entrance. Both were transported to Rice Hospital by Willmar Ambulance. Emergency crews attempted to revive them for an extended period of time before both were pronounced dead at Rice Hospital.

An investigation is ongoing.