TUSCARAWAS COUNTY, OH — Authorities are investigating a heartbreaking incident at Lake Atwood after a 4-year-old boy and his father were found dead over the weekend.

The Tuscarawas County Sheriff’s Office identified the victims as 4-year-old Vincent Miller and his father, 45-year-old Marcus Miller.

The case began around 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 23, when dispatchers received reports that a golf cart carrying a woman and three children had entered the lake and become submerged. Witnesses said the occupants made it back to shore, but moments later, concerns were raised about the safety of the family.

Sheriff Orvis Campbell said bystanders initially tried to assist the mother, but she declined physical help and instead asked one witness to pray for her. Officials later revealed that she made troubling statements regarding her faith and her role as a mother, including remarks that she had “given her son to God.”

The bodies of Vincent and Marcus Miller were later recovered from the water. Authorities have not yet disclosed how Marcus died but emphasized that investigators are handling the case with great care due to its sensitive nature.

“This is a deeply tragic situation, and our hearts go out to the family and everyone impacted,” Sheriff Campbell said.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to piece together what led up to the events at Lake Atwood.

⚠️ If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, help is available. Call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or visit their website for resources.