Missing Child With Autism Found Safe Thanks To Hillsborough Sheriff’s Aviation Unit

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla.– A quick response by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, aided by their Aviation Section, resulted in the safe return of a missing child with autism on Halloween.

The child, who wandered away from school on October 31st, had removed his Safety Net tracking device, making it difficult to locate him.

Fortunately, a concerned neighbor spotted the child near 11100 Leland Groves Drive in Riverview and reported it to authorities.

READ: Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Halloween Operation Nets 19 Arrests

The HCSO Aviation Section quickly joined the search, providing aerial support to deputies on the ground. With guidance from the helicopter crew, deputies were able to locate the child unharmed and reunite him with his guardians.

“Thanks to the quick action of our deputies and the community’s support, we brought this juvenile home safely,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “We are committed to the well-being of our community, and our deputies will always prioritize the safety and security of our community.”

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