Michael Houston – Nearly six months after a body was discovered near Lock and Dam Park, the Richmond County Coroner’s Office has released the identity of the teen involved.
Coroner Mark Bowen confirmed the individual as 16-year-old Michael Houston. Officials stated that the cause of death remains under investigation, with autopsy results still pending.
Houston’s body was found in August near Lock and Dam Park. According to Maj. Robbie Silas of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, workers conducting geological survey work along the river made the discovery and immediately notified authorities.
Law enforcement and emergency responders secured the area shortly after arriving at the scene. Fire crews assisted in removing the body from the water, while sheriff’s investigators began examining the surrounding area for potential evidence.
Maj. Silas said investigators searched both sides of the river as part of their initial response. A sheriff’s office boat was also deployed to assist with the investigation on the water.
Authorities confirmed that Houston had been reported missing just days before his body was located. He was last seen on the 1000 block of Stevens Creek Road around 7 a.m. on Aug. 18, 2025, according to officials. Family members and law enforcement had been seeking information about his whereabouts prior to the discovery.
At this time, officials have not released additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding Houston’s death. The investigation remains active as authorities await the completion of forensic testing and continue to review evidence collected from the scene.
The Richmond County Coroner’s Office and Sheriff’s Office have not indicated whether foul play is suspected, emphasizing that the case remains under review until all investigative findings are complete.
Community members with any information related to the case are encouraged to contact the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available through official sources.
