Missing three-year-old autistic boy found dead in canal after search in Putnam County

SATSUMA, Florida. – The search for a 3-year-old autistic boy ended in tragedy Tuesday after he was found dead in a canal behind his Satsuma home, according to the Putnam County Sheriff's Office.

Numerous units, including a Marine unit and a canine unit, searched for Gabriel near Clearwater Road. At around 6 p.m., the sheriff's office announced that he was found dead in a canal behind his home.

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“We ask that you pray for the family during this time,” said Sheriff HD “Gator” DeLoach. “No family should have to experience the tragedy of losing their child, and we ask our community for comfort and support on the difficult road ahead.”

The investigation is ongoing.

PCSO had no further information on the incident.