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.
St. Louis, MO — A family is mourning the loss of 6-year-old Lailah Austin, who tragically drowned while attending a party at the Element St. Louis Midtown Hotel on Saturday, January 18, 2025.
According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, officers responded to the hotel, located in the 3700 block of Forest Park Avenue, around 8:30 p.m. after receiving a report from hotel staff who discovered the child unresponsive in the indoor pool.
Emergency responders rushed Lailah to a nearby hospital, where she was listed in critical, unstable condition.
Despite medical efforts, Lailah succumbed to her injuries and passed away on Monday, January 20.
Her family is heartbroken, especially as they were preparing to celebrate her upcoming 7th birthday this Sunday.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department has classified the incident as an “accidental injury” and has assigned its Child Abuse Unit to lead the investigation. Authorities have not released additional details at this time.
The tragic incident remains under investigation, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Lailah’s family, friends, and the community are rallying together to remember the young girl and support her loved ones during this difficult time.