Six-Year-Old with Autism Rescued from Florida Pond

On Christmas Day, a young autistic boy, aged six, was saved from a pond by officers in Florida. This incident mirrors a similar event that occurred nearly 15 months prior.

The child, known as Coco by the Volusia County Sheriff's Office, was found standing in water that reached his chest. Fortunately, he was unharmed thanks to the timely intervention of deputies, including assistance from a sheriff's helicopter.

Sheriff's office footage reveals the moment officers located Coco after the helicopter crew identified him in the pond. Despite the cold, Coco was unharmed, according to authorities.

Coco, who is nonverbal and has a strong allure to water, previously wandered away from his home in August 2024. He managed to exit through an upper-floor door, triggering an alarm that prompted his family to seek immediate police assistance.

Deputy Wes Brough discovered Coco holding onto a branch in a neighborhood pond. He carried Coco to the shore, and after a medical check, the boy was safely reunited with his family.

After the 2024 incident, Coco began taking swimming lessons. Discussions were held with his family about enhancing home safety features and the continuous use of a GPS tracking device.

Authorities emphasize the importance of protective measures for families with autistic or special needs children, recommending door alarms, secure fencing, and wearable tracking devices.

"Our primary relief is that Coco is home and safe," a representative from the sheriff's office expressed.