Key Point Summary โ Decomposing Body
- Body found in pond near last sighting of missing teen Giovanni Pelletier
- Deputies have not confirmed identity but are updating the family
- Pelletier vanished after leaving a vehicle during trip with cousins
- Teen texted family for help moments after walking away
- Investigation remains active as authorities seek information
Body Found Near Interstate Off Ramp
Authorities in Florida have discovered a decomposing body in a retention pond close to where missing 18-year-old Giovanni Pelletier was last seen. Sheriffโs office spokesman Randy Warren says the body, believed to be male, was located near the southbound off ramp of the interstate.
While deputies have not yet confirmed the identity, they are keeping Pelletierโs family fully updated on the investigation.
Last Sighting Raises Questions
Pelletier was last seen around 1:30 a.m. on August 1 in Manatee County. Witnesses say he walked away from a vehicle near State Road 70 after acting erratically. The teen, visiting from Englewood while on vacation with cousins, reportedly exited the car suddenly and disappeared into the night.
Moments later, he sent urgent text messages to his mother and other relatives asking for help.
Ongoing Search And Investigation
Authorities have not disclosed the condition of the body beyond its advanced decomposition. The Charlotte County Sheriffโs Office continues to investigate the circumstances and is urging the public to come forward with any information.
Anyone with details is asked to call the sheriffโs office at 941-639-2101.
