Missing 3-year-old boy with autism found dead in canal after search in Putnam County

SATSUMA, Fla. – A search for a 3-year-old boy with autism ended in tragedy Tuesday after he was found dead in a canal behind his Satsuma home, according to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office.

Numerous units including a marine unit and a K-9 team searched for the boy near Clearwater Road. Around 6 p.m., the sheriff’s office announced that he was found dead in a canal behind his home.

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“At this time we ask for you to say a prayer for the family,” Sheriff HD “Gator” DeLoach said. “No family should undergo the tragedy of losing their child and we ask for comfort from our community to support them as they navigate the difficult journey ahead.”

The investigation is ongoing.

PCSO did not have any further information on the incident.