The town of Mount Airy, Maryland, is in mourning following the devastating and untimely death of 13-year-old Mason Kearns, who was tragically swept away during Thursday’s intense flash flooding. What began as a routine summer day quickly turned into a heartbreaking tragedy, as powerful stormwaters surged through the area and claimed the life of a young boy who was deeply loved and cherished by all who knew him.
According to the Mount Airy Police Department, Mason was pulled into a storm drain during the flood, despite efforts to reach and rescue him. His body was later recovered, and the news of his passing has sent ripples of grief through the entire community.
Mason’s death serves as a sorrowful reminder of the unpredictable dangers of extreme weather events and the fragile nature of life. For his family, friends, and neighbors, the loss is immeasurable.
A Community United in Grief and Remembrance
In response to the tragedy, Mason’s family has invited the public to join them in a candlelight vigil to honor and remember his life. The vigil will be held at 8 p.m. on Sunday at Watkins Park, located at 615 Center Street in Mount Airy. All who knew Mason or who wish to offer their support are encouraged to attend. The gathering will serve as a time for shared grief, prayer, reflection, and unity as the town remembers a bright young soul taken far too soon.
Mason is remembered by those who knew him as a kind-hearted, joyful, and curious young boy with a warm smile and a gentle spirit. He had a way of making others feel welcome, and his personality left a lasting impression on classmates, teachers, and friends alike. Whether it was his sense of humor or his helpful nature, Mason had a unique ability to bring light into the lives of others.
Support Efforts for the Kearns Family
In a powerful show of solidarity, the Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Company has set up a donation collection site at their firehouse, located at 702 N. Main Street. Donations in the form of monetary gifts and gift cards to local grocery stores and restaurants are being accepted to help support the Kearns family during this unimaginable time. Due to storage and safety concerns, the organization has asked that premade food items not be delivered.
In addition, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help ease the financial burden of funeral costs and related expenses. Community members have already begun contributing, showing just how loved and supported Mason’s family is in their time of grief.
A Lasting Legacy of Love and Light
Though Mason’s life was heartbreakingly short, his presence in this world was deeply meaningful. The way his community has come together in the wake of his passing is a testament to the lives he touched and the love that surrounded him every day.
He will be remembered not only as a son, student, and friend but also as a young life filled with promise, kindness, and heart. His legacy will live on in the memories shared, the prayers spoken, and the continued acts of compassion being shown by those who loved him.
As Mount Airy mourns this profound loss, they also hold close the memory of Mason Kearns—a boy whose light, though dimmed far too soon, will never be forgotten.