Tragedy in Maine: 3-Year-Old Found Lifeless in Snow After Disappearance

A relative of a family grieving the loss of their young boy has started a GoFundMe page to help with medical and funeral expenses.

On January 12, 2025, a 3-year-old boy was reported missing in Corinna, Maine. Later, officials confirmed that he had passed away. His father found him outside in the snow near their home.

Authorities believe the boy died from being exposed to the cold, though the official cause will be determined after an autopsy by the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office.

The tragedy began early that morning when the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office got a call around 8:30 a.m. A woman reported her young nephew missing from a home on Exeter Road.

Not long after, the boy’s father made the heartbreaking discovery. “Regretfully, the male child succumbed to injuries which appear to be consistent with exposure to the elements,” said officials.

They confirmed this was an isolated incident and assured the public there is no ongoing danger.

A spokesperson for the Maine Department of Health and Human Services expressed sorrow, saying, “The loss of a child is devastating and tragic. Our condolences are with the family and those impacted.”

Because of privacy laws and the sensitive nature of the case, officials did not share more details. The Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit is investigating the case with help from the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office and Maine DHHS.

To support the family, the boy’s aunt, Desiree Ambrose, started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for funeral, memorial, and medical costs.

The campaign includes a touching photo of the smiling boy with his mom, showing his curly blonde hair and cheerful personality. “The sudden and unexpected loss of this 3-year-old boy has left his mom, dad, and 2 siblings completely heartbroken,” Ambrose wrote.

She added, “He was a strong, loving, funny, and happy little boy. He loved his family unconditionally and was loved back just as much by everyone who knew him. He passed away 1/12/2025 due to a horrific incident.”

Ambrose asked for help, saying, “Please, anyone. Everything and anything is very much appreciated. Thank you, and please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers as we continue this long journey to get this little boy to rest where he belongs, at home with his family.” The campaign aims to raise $10,000, and so far, it has collected $5,590 from 142 donations.

Ambrose also shared the GoFundMe link on Facebook, asking for support for the grieving family.

Among the many comments on her post was a message from the boy’s mom, Jada Haddad. “Thank you for doing this for Joesiah,” Haddad wrote.

The mother also shared her deep sadness, saying, “I can’t wait until my baby boy is home and at rest… home does not feel like home anymore… I feel so empty.”

On January 14, 2025, a day after the campaign was shared, Haddad posted her own emotional message on Facebook.

She expressed how much she misses her son and wants to bring him home to rest. “Anything helps, even just words of wisdom… prayers… please keep my baby in your thoughts,” she said.

Haddad also shared her heartbreak, writing, “It just crushes me…. it will never be the same again…. home will never be home again.”

Her words touched many people, and several offered their condolences and support in any way they could.

During this difficult time, we extend our deepest sympathies to Haddad, her son’s dad, his siblings, and the rest of the family. We hope they find healing as they cope with this tragic loss.