Hero Deputy Locates Missing 5-Year-Old in Pond — Emotional Rescue Captured on Bodycam
A Florida community is calling one deputy a hero after dramatic bodycam footage captured the rescue of a missing 5-year-old boy with autism.
What began as a terrifying moment for one family quickly turned into an emotional, life-saving recovery thanks to quick action from the Volusia Sheriff’s Office.
The frightening incident happened Tuesday evening in Deltona, Florida, when a father reported that his young son had suddenly gone missing from their home on Valmont Lane. The child, who has autism and is non-verbal, managed to slip out through a second-story door—triggering the home’s alarm system immediately.
Realizing what happened, the family rushed to search the area, calling neighbors for help and dialing 911 within minutes. Their fear: the pond behind the home, a danger for any child, especially one who may be drawn to water.
Deputies Arrive in Minutes — and Race Toward the Water
Responding deputies quickly spread out through the neighborhood, scanning yards, wooded areas, and bodies of water nearby.
One deputy, identified in dispatch as X-Ray 42 Central, moved quickly toward the pond.
His bodycam footage shows him running down the bank before suddenly spotting a small figure partially in the water.
Without hesitation, the deputy wades in.
He lifts the child gently, keeping him calm and secure, and begins speaking softly:
“What’s your name? Hey, buddy… you wanna go see your parents?”
The boy, wet and confused, stays quietly in the deputy’s arms as the officer carries him back to safety.
It’s a moment that has touched millions online.
Family Overwhelmed With Relief
As deputies reunite the little boy with his parents, you can hear the emotional release in the background—crying, relief, and gratitude.
The father explains he had secured the home and installed alarms specifically to protect his son.
But in a matter of seconds, the boy managed to unlock the door and slip away.
The alarm saved precious time.
The deputies’ response saved a life.
A Community Filled With Gratitude
The Volusia Sheriff’s Office posted the bodycam footage shortly after the rescue, praising the deputy for:
- His rapid response
- His immediate entry into the water
- His calm, comforting communication with the child
- His professionalism under pressure
Social media responded instantly:
- “A true hero.”
- “This deputy deserves recognition.”
- “As a parent of a child with autism, this hit me hard.”
- “Thank God for officers like this.”
Many viewers also highlighted the dangers children with autism face, especially around water, and thanked the deputy for acting so quickly.
Why This Story Matters
This rescue highlights three critical factors that saved the child’s life:
1️⃣ The home alarm system alerted the family instantly.
Without it, precious minutes may have been lost.
2️⃣ The family acted fast—searching and calling 911 immediately.
3️⃣ The deputy responded quickly and entered the pond without hesitation.
His bravery turned a frightening situation into a miracle outcome.
A Reminder of the Dedication of Law Enforcement
While many viral videos show tense or chaotic encounters, this story shines a spotlight on the quiet heroism that happens every day.
A frightened child.
A frantic family.
A life-or-death moment.
And one deputy who didn’t hesitate.
The rescue is a powerful reminder that law enforcement officers often step into danger not for recognition, but simply to help.
