Gwinnett County, United States – On March 24, police officers responded to a report of a missing 8-year-old child with autism spectrum disorder who is nonverbal. The child had run out of the home, and with a lake nearby, officers and family members knew time was critical.

Officers quickly spread out to search the area, and members of the community joined the effort. Master Police Officer J. Serrano positioned his patrol vehicle on the bridge along Steve Reynolds Boulevard overlooking the lake while volunteers searched the surrounding woods.

A short time later, the child was heard crying and was found clinging to a branch in the lake. MPO Serrano and a civilian immediately entered the water to rescue the child.

The child was reunited with their family and evaluated on the scene by Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services before being transported to a local hospital due to hypothermia concerns. Thankfully, the child did not suffer any serious injuries.

Police emphasized that the swift response, teamwork, and community involvement were crucial in ensuring the child’s safety.

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