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The office called the idea that “four Hispanic individuals made off with 17-year-old Caden Speight” “unfounded.”
They also dismissed reports that he was wearing his red MAGA hat at the time, stating plainly the claim was also “unfounded.”
New Evidence Emerges
Investigators revealed that Speight may not have been kidnapped at all. Instead, surveillance evidence suggests he left the scene on his own.
According to the sheriff’s release: “Primarily, at this time, there is no evidence to indicate that he was taken by 4 Hispanic men in a light-colored van. It is possible that he left the incident location on a black bicycle with a red and grey tent, which he purchased at Walmart on SW 19th Avenue Road, in Ocala, just prior to this incident being reported.”
Amber Alert Still Active
Despite the new details, law enforcement isn’t downplaying the danger. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement issued an Amber Alert for Speight, describing him as 6 feet tall, 150 pounds, last seen wearing a dark shirt and blue jeans.
Photographs released by deputies show him on a bicycle shortly before his disappearance.
Authorities are asking anyone who spots someone matching his description to immediately dial 911.
Sheriff Woods Vows Full Commitment
Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods addressed the public directly, making clear that his office is dedicating everything it has to finding the missing teen.
“We respond to every 911 call with a determination to ensure justice is served and the truth revealed. But any law-enforcement officer will tell you that when these calls involve juveniles, it takes on an even greater intensity. This case is no different.”
He added: “My deputies responded immediately, and I have dedicated all of my available resources to respond to this event. Initial information was later determined to be inaccurate; however, we always give everything we have until the investigation takes us into a different direction. I appreciate the many citizens who gave us tips and information to help my detectives. Understand, I will continue to have all of my available resources committed to locating this young man.”
The Search Continues
On Thursday night, police units scoured the area near Marion County Airport, but found no trace of Speight. Hospitals across the region were checked as well, with no records of a patient matching his description.
The case underscores how fast misinformation can spread in the modern 24-hour news cycle, where speculation online often outruns verified facts.
Bottom Line
While the most alarming claims about abduction and political targeting have been ruled out, a Florida teenager is still missing. The sheriff’s office says the search is ongoing and that the community’s eyes and ears are critical in bringing him home.
Anyone with information is urged to contact local law enforcement immediately.
