5‐Year‐Old Nonverbal Boy Found Dead in Pond Near New Home in Golden Gate

Tragedy Strikes During Move-In

A 5-year-old boy with autism and nonverbal status went missing on Saturday, July 26, 2025, around 3:15 p.m. local time while unpacking with his family after moving into an apartment in the Golden Gate neighborhood of Naples. When he could not be located inside the residence or nearby, the family alerted authorities.

Massive Search Effort Underway

Once authorities were notified, Collier County deputies launched a full-scale search. Efforts included ground teams, drone surveillance, mounted patrol, K‑9 units, aviation support, marine dive crews, EMS, and local fire rescue teams. The search continued overnight into Sunday.

Discovery in Adjacent Pond

Late Sunday morning, search crews located the boy’s body in a pond near the family’s new home on Magnolia Pond Circle. The area borders the Everly apartment complex. Responders confirmed the child was found deceased in the water.

Context and Local History

This tragic incident echoes a previous drowning in the same complex. In May 2024, a father lost his life trying to rescue his autistic son who had wandered into a retention pond at the Everly Apartments. The child survived.

Safety Experts Highlight Autism Risks

Child safety experts emphasize that children with autism are often drawn to water in sensory-driven ways. They advise parents and caregivers to invest in swim lessons, install additional door locks or alarms, and assess water hazards when planning safe living spaces near ponds or lakes.

How Authorities Are Responding

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office classified the death as part of an ongoing investigation. Officials expressed sorrow for the family and offered appreciation for the first responders and community members who aided in the search. No criminal allegations have been filed.

What This Means for the Community

Families living near water bodies—especially those with children on the autism spectrum—are being urged to review safety measures at home. This includes ensuring pools, ponds, and landscaping are secured and installing alarms on doors exiting to yards or water features.