Heartbreaking Tragedy in Midfield: Body of 8-Year-Old RaShad Thomas Recovered from Rock Quarry, Search for Accompanying Adult Continues

Heartbreaking Tragedy in Midfield: Body of 8-Year-Old RaShad Thomas Recovered from Rock Quarry, Search for Accompanying Adult Continues

MIDFIELD, AL — June 22, 2025 — A tragic search has ended in sorrow as the body of 8-year-old RaShad Thomas, who disappeared while fishing at the Holcim Birmingham Slag Plant rock quarry in Midfield, was recovered early Sunday morning. The heartbreaking discovery has left a community grieving and on edge, as the search continues for the adult who was with him at the time of the incident.

According to authorities, the initial call for a water rescue was received at approximately 5:04 p.m. on Saturday, prompting emergency responders to first report to Bessemer Avenue at Myrtle Avenue. However, upon arrival, responders quickly realized the reported location was inaccurate. After reassessment, they relocated to the correct site in the 1500 block of Hartman Industrial Boulevard, at the quarry site operated by Holcim.

Investigators say RaShad and a man, whose identity has not yet been publicly released, were fishing together when the child fell into the deep quarry waters—believed to be at least 10 feet deep. In a desperate effort to save him, the man jumped in after RaShad, but tragically, neither of them resurfaced.

Bystanders who witnessed the ordeal attempted to render help, leaping into the water themselves. Unfortunately, their efforts were unsuccessful, and by the time first responders arrived, both victims had vanished beneath the surface. Disturbingly, many of the witnesses fled the scene, leaving emergency crews with limited information as they tried to piece together what had happened.

Midfield Mayor Gary Richardson confirmed Sunday morning that the child’s body had been located by dive teams. “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the recovery of young RaShad Thomas,” he said. “Our hearts are broken for this family, and we are working diligently to locate the missing man who risked his life trying to save him.”

The recovery of RaShad’s body occurred shortly after specialized deep water divers from the Hoover Police Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office resumed their search around 8 a.m. on Sunday. The Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service, Midfield Fire Department, and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office remain on site as efforts continue.

The Holcim rock quarry, while not open to public recreation, has become a known spot for unauthorized fishing and swimming. Local officials have long warned of the dangers of these deep industrial quarries, which have sharp drops, unstable edges, and extremely cold, unpredictable water currents.

RaShad’s family, devastated and overwhelmed with grief, has asked for privacy as they come to terms with the loss of a beloved son, brother, and grandson. Described by neighbors as a sweet and curious child who loved the outdoors, RaShad had just finished the second grade and was looking forward to summer adventures.

“He was full of energy and joy,” said a neighbor, tears in her eyes. “Always had a fishing rod in his hand when he wasn’t riding his bike.”

Local residents have gathered at the quarry’s perimeter, leaving flowers, candles, and stuffed animals in RaShad’s memory. A vigil is being organized for Sunday evening, offering a moment of solidarity, prayer, and remembrance for a life tragically cut short.

Meanwhile, the search continues for the man who jumped in to try to save RaShad. Dive teams say the water’s depth, paired with shifting debris and low visibility, has complicated the search. Officials have not disclosed whether the man was a relative or family friend, but community members say he was known to accompany RaShad on weekend outings.

Authorities continue to urge anyone with information, particularly those who witnessed the incident before leaving the scene, to come forward.

“This was a tragic accident, but understanding the full context is vital,” said one official with Birmingham Fire and Rescue. “We’re asking anyone who was present to help us fill in the gaps. Even the smallest detail could make a difference.”

As Midfield mourns, the loss of young RaShad Thomas has left an indelible mark on hearts throughout Jefferson County and beyond. His death is a stark reminder of the dangers hidden in seemingly peaceful places—and of the heroic, selfless love that sometimes drives a person to risk everything to save another.

Rest in peace, RaShad. You are loved, and you will not be forgotten.