“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.

β€œI 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.

β€œHe’s Gaston County’s boy now,” says Miller.