Florida police issued a state-wide “amber alert” on Thursday for missing 17-year-old Caden Speight, believed to be a victim in a reported shooting in Dunellon, Marion County, 80 miles northwest of Orlando.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement said when they arrived at the scene of a reported shooting, near Marion County Airport, they found Speight’s car, but have yet to locate him.
Speight, described as a white male, six feet tall, 150 pounds, and wearing a t-shirt and jeans, was last seen in the 12800 block of SW Highway 84 in Dunnellon. The missing teen is from Citrus County.
According to local reports, he may have been wearing a red “Make America Great Again” hat at the time of his disappearance.
“Caden may be in the company of four unknown males, possibly Hispanic,” the FDLE said in a statement.
“They may be traveling in a light-colored van. If located, DO NOT APPROACH. Contact law enforcement immediately.”
According to reports, Investigators believe Speight has been wounded and is in danger.
His vehicle was reportedly found with evidence of gunfire.
The Ocala StarBanner reports that the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, including a helicopter, have been searching for Speight all night.
Local hospitals have been checked, but authorities have not yet located the teenager.
In a post on Facebook, Speight’s sister issued a plea for her brother to come home.
“God I just want him home. I can’t sleep eat or do anything not knowing where he is and if he is safe. Please don’t stop searching or looking. There is still little to no information on what happened or where he could be. I don’t understand why this has happened. Just bring him home,” she wrote.
It is unclear whether Speight left the scene of the alleged shooting voluntarily or whether he was abducted.
Investigators have not indicated how he came into contact with the four unknown males or provided any further details on the incident.
The force said, “If you have any information on the whereabouts of this child, please contact the Marion County Sheriff's Office.”
The apparent shooting occurred around 4 pm, and the Amber Alert was activated Thursday evening.
Florida officials have classified Speight’s disappearance as a high-priority missing person case due to the surrounding circumstances.
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