“He’s Gaston County’s Boy Now.” A Community Reeling Over The Loss Of Maddox Ritch

GASTON COUNTY, NC — A community is in mourning as they try to cope with the news of 6-year-old Maddox Ritch’s death.

Over fifty people came to a prayer vigil for Maddox on Rankin Lake Road, many sharing tear filled messages of hope.

The news hit home for many in Gaston County.

“I don’t even know the little fellow, but it has broken my heart and made me sick, literally sick to my stomach,” says a Gaston County resident.

They honored the memory of the six-year-old, who was autistic and non-verbal.

Lindsey Miller was driving when she heard the news on the radio.

“Tears. Immediately, and I was just heartbroken, and I had to pull over because it was defiantly a shock,” says Miller.

Many residents tell WCCB that Maddox Ritch will never be forgotten.

“He’s Gaston County’s boy now,” says Miller.