A 5-year-old boy with autism was found dead in a pond near his family’s new home in Naples, Florida, just a day after he went missing, authorities confirmed Sunday.
Jaylen Saintelien disappeared Saturday afternoon, July 26, as his family was unpacking after moving into their new residence. According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Jaylen, who was nonverbal, was last seen by his mother sitting at the kitchen counter eating pizza while she was folding clothes in a bedroom.
When she returned a short time later, Jaylen was gone. The family quickly searched the home and surrounding area before calling 911.
A massive search followed, involving deputies, drones, mounted patrol, K-9 units, and a dive team. Sadly, Jaylen’s body was found the following morning, July 27, in a pond near the family’s home.
“We are heartbroken for Jaylen’s family,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “We extend our gratitude to fellow first responders and community members who helped in the search.”
Jaylen’s father, in a message reshared by a local news anchor, wrote simply: “My son is gone.”
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