DELTONA, Fla. – A missing 7-year-old Deltona boy with autism who wandered away from home Monday evening was found dead in a nearby waterway, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
The FDLE issued a missing child alert Tuesday morning for Charlie Newton. An update made later Tuesday morning said, “It is with sadness that we report the child is deceased. Our prayers go out to Charlie’s family, loved ones and community.”
In a news release, the Volusia Sheriff’s Office said Charlie ran north along Stillwater Avenue around 8 p.m.
“Deputies are actively searching the area and bringing in additional resources to aid in the search,” the release said. “A reverse 911 call has been sent to area residents, and Charlie’s photo has been provided to area businesses.”
K-9s were on the ground to help with the search and later Monday night, deputies said that they were performing searches from both the ground and air.
Just before 2 a.m. Tuesday, the sheriff’s office said “deputies will keep searching through the predawn hours and into the morning.”
“We are saddened to report that we have recovered Charlie’s body from the water,” sheriff’s officials posted on X. “This is the tragic outcome we all worked so hard hoping would not come to pass. We appreciate all the shares, the community support and the assistance from all our partner agencies in this effort.”
The boy attended Spirit Elementary in Deltona.
“Our hearts are heavy for the child and his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” said Sarah Lux, spokesperson for Volusia County Schools. “The loss of a child is tragic; we know how upsetting this news must be for many of our students and families. Mental health professionals will be on campus when school resumes on Monday for students, parents and staff who need help navigating their grief.”
According to a sheriff’s incident report, deputies contacted the Florida Department of Children and Families after the home was found to have a large roach infestation and minimal food for the children. The incident report also said the refrigerator was chained shut and there was a biometric lock on the only bathroom, making it only accessible by the adults in the home.
We are saddened to report that we have recovered Charlie’s body from the water. This is the tragic outcome we all worked so hard hoping would not come to pass. We appreciate all the shares, the community support and the assistance from all our partner agencies in this effort.
— Volusia Sheriff (@VolusiaSheriff) November 26, 2024
Experts say children with autism are drawn to water, and their challenges with communication and sensory processing can make these environments especially hazardous.
Counties across Florida are taking steps to address these risks. You can read about their efforts by clicking here.
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