BUSHNELL, Fla. — A Sumter County teen who is autistic was found safely on Tuesday evening after missing for nearly 24 hours.
The Sumter County Sheriff's Office said 16-year-old Peyton Pickard was located in neck-deep water by the Withlacoochee River, less than a mile from his home in Bushnell.
He was reported missing from his house near County Road 575 and State Road 48 around Monday at 9 p.m.
"The deputies said when they found him, he was just basically sitting there in a crunched position with his arms up around his neck because he was in neck-deep water," said Undersheriff Pat Breeden with the Sumter County Sheriff's Office.
Deputy Mata and a bloodhound named Indy found the teen.
"We didn't lose hope, but we always have concerns cause the amount of time and the terrain," said Undersheriff Breeden.
Numerous law enforcement agencies, including the Sumter County Sheriff's Office and Citrus County Sheriff's Office, spent Monday evening and Tuesday searching for Pickard. The teen is non-verbal and autistic.
Nearly 100 volunteers showed up to help law enforcement search.
"I'm ecstatic. I'm happy. We didn't go out and search, but we can't be more thrilled that we didn't have to," said Desiree Paradise, who lives in Orlando.
"I have sons and I would hope somebody would do the same for me, but I also just have a heart for people," said Jacqueline Adams.
Authorities said the teen was found dehydrated with bug bites and scratches.
He was taken to a hospital for evaluation.
"It makes my heart happy because a young man is back with his father tonight. He is safe, and by God's will, the outcome is great," said Undersheriff Breeden.
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