A six-year-old boy with autism was rescued from a pond in Florida on Christmas Day. This incident took place just 15 months after a previous rescue prompted him to begin swimming lessons.
Rescue Operation Details
The child, known as Coco, was discovered in chest-deep water by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies were aided by a sheriff’s helicopter during the operation. Video footage released by the sheriff’s office shows the search for Coco before he was located in the pond.
Thankfully, Coco was cold but unharmed when he was retrieved from the water. It was noted that he is nonverbal and has a particular attraction to aquatic environments.
Previous Rescue Experience
In August 2024, when Coco was just five years old, he managed to escape through a second-story door of his home. This prompted an alarm that alerted his family, who quickly contacted the authorities.
- Coco’s home is located in Deltona, Florida.
- Deputy Wes Brough was the first to locate Coco, who was clinging to a branch in a nearby pond.
- After being safely brought to dry land, Coco was medically cleared and reunited with his family.
Safety Measures Implemented
Following the earlier incident, Coco began taking swimming lessons. Additionally, deputies advised his family to implement several safety measures. These included installing door alarms, securing fencing around their property, and having Coco wear a GPS tracker to prevent future incidents.
Guidance for Families
Authorities recommend that families with children who have autism or special needs adopt multiple protective strategies. This approach may ensure better safety for children who are drawn to water.
“Most importantly, we’re just glad he’s back home safe,” remarked the sheriff’s office regarding the recent rescue. The community continues to support measures aimed at safeguarding children with special needs.
