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NewsWSVN 7 MiamiAugust 12, 2026Miami-Dade

Neighbors rescue autistic child from Port St. Lucie retention pond

Local residents intervened to rescue a 5-year-old boy with autism who wandered away from his home and entered a retention pond in Port St. Lucie on Saturday morning. The child was recovered safely after approximately 10 minutes and was found to be physically unhurt, despite being covered in fire ants.

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Read the full story at WSVN 7 Miami

Why It Matters

The incident highlights the increased drowning risk for children with autism, who are statistically 160 times more likely to drown than their peers.

Key Facts

  • A 5-year-old boy with autism wandered away from his home and entered a retention pond in Port St. Lucie.
  • Neighbors, including Melinda Dryer, intervened and guided the child to safety after approximately 10 minutes.
  • The child was found to be physically unhurt, though he was covered in fire ants.
  • Individuals with autism are 160 times more likely to drown than their neurotypical peers, according to the National Drowning Prevention Alliance.
  • Police advise the public to follow their instincts and intervene if they suspect a child is in danger.

Who's Mentioned

locationPort St. Lucie“City where the incident occurred.”personMelinda Dryer“Good Samaritan who spotted and helped rescue the child.”other160“Statistical multiplier for drowning risk among children with autism.”personAlissa Magrum“Executive director of the National Drowning Prevention Alliance.”organizationNational Drowning Prevention Alliance“Organization providing context on drowning risks for individuals with autism.”