Local News
Help find missing 5-year-old Jace Saunders in Tavares, Florida
Jace is approximately 3 feet tall, semi-verbal, and has been diagnosed with autism, further heightening concerns for his safety.
Tavares, FL – Authorities are urgently requesting the public’s assistance in locating 5-year-old Jace Saunders, who has been reported missing and is considered endangered.
Jace was last seen at approximately 1:19 PM today in the Southside area of Tavares, near Summerall Park.
According to officials, he was wearing dark blue long pajamas with a graphic design on the front, as depicted in a recently released photo.
Jace is approximately 3 feet tall, semi-verbal, and has been diagnosed with autism, further heightening concerns for his safety.
Investigators believe Jace may be with his grandmother, Kelly Dasilva, and could be traveling in a black Honda Accord or an unidentified passenger car.
Initial findings indicate Jace was possibly taken unlawfully by a family member amid an active Department of Children and Families (DCF) investigation.
Law enforcement officials remain on-site, actively investigating the circumstances of Jace’s disappearance.
The most recent photo of Jace, taken shortly before he went missing, has been circulated to aid in his identification.
Authorities emphasize the importance of immediate action in locating Jace and urge anyone with information on his whereabouts or details about the black Honda Accord to contact law enforcement without delay.
Please reference Case Number T24120625 when providing tips or information. Every second is critical in ensuring Jace’s safe return.
Volusia County, Fla. — A 16-year-old boy has died after being found unresponsive in the Indian River during a weekend camping and fishing trip, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities identified the teen as Hunter McKelvin of Paisley. Deputies said he was discovered face-down in the water Saturday morning near a small island east of Maynard May Park in Edgewater.
Members of the group located the teen and immediately began CPR before transporting him by boat to Maynard May Park.
Upon arrival, officers with the Edgewater Police Department and other emergency responders took over life-saving efforts.
McKelvin was then transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased later that morning.
Investigators reported that no visible injuries were observed, and there were no immediate signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances during the initial investigation.
An autopsy has been scheduled as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.