CLEARWATER, Fla. (WFLA) — A tense situation in Florida had a fortunate ending after police released dramatic body camera footage showing the rescue of a missing 8-year-old girl with autism. The child had wandered away from her family while they were visiting Clearwater earlier this month, prompting an urgent search by law enforcement.
Authorities were alerted shortly after the family reported the girl missing. Clearwater Police officers immediately began combing the surrounding area, aware of the potential dangers for a young child, especially one with special needs. The search intensified as time passed, with officers spreading out across nearby neighborhoods, businesses, and open areas in hopes of locating her quickly.
Eventually, the girl with autism found near water was spotted in a hazardous location—standing on large rocks in a construction zone behind a hotel, right at the edge of the water. The area was known to have a dangerous current, raising serious concerns about her safety.
Body camera footage released by police shows the heart-stopping moment an officer approached the girl and safely pulled her away from the water’s edge. His calm demeanor and swift action played a critical role in preventing a potentially devastating outcome.
“We’re grateful for his quick response and dedication to keeping our community safe,” Clearwater Police said on social media.
According to the department, the situation could have turned tragic in an instant. “Police said that if she had fallen into the water, it was likely the girl would have drowned in the dangerous current.”
The video, which has been shared widely online, highlights not only the risks that children with autism may face when they wander but also the vital role that trained law enforcement officers play in responding to these high-stress incidents. Clearwater Police commended the officer’s bravery and used the opportunity to remind the public about the importance of awareness and prevention when it comes to missing children.
Autism advocates continue to stress the need for additional safety measures for children on the spectrum, as wandering is a well-documented concern. Families are encouraged to use GPS devices, secure exits, and communicate with local authorities if they are visiting unfamiliar areas.
In this case, what could have ended in heartbreak became a moment of gratitude—for a quick-thinking officer, for an alert community, and for the safe return of a vulnerable child.
Worried About Wandering? We’re Here to Help.
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