Full Breakdown
Gwinnett County Officers Successfully Rescue Missing Boy with Autism from Storm Drain
12/22/2025, 7:54:05 AM
Incident Overview
On November 15, 2025, Gwinnett County police officers successfully located a five-year-old boy with autism who had wandered away from a playground at Peachtree Ridge Park. The search lasted approximately 40 minutes and concluded with the boy being found inside a storm drain. Officers utilized their instincts and observations, including a disturbed fence line and an open pipe, to guide their search.
Search and Rescue Efforts
The rescue operation began after officers received a call about the missing child. Body camera footage captured the urgency of the situation, with officers calling out for the boy and inquiring about his name. Officer Jacob Hugley, who has a son on the autism spectrum, expressed a personal connection to the case. He, along with other officers, followed a walking trail that led towards the woods, where they believed the boy had gone.
Officer Hugley noted that his instincts were crucial in the search. He identified a disturbed area near a large tree, which led him to an open pipe. Shortly after, Officer Steven Nunez crawled into the pipe and located the boy several hundred feet inside the drain. Nunez reassured the child, saying, "I got you, buddy. I got you," as firefighters prepared to lift him to safety.
Condition of the Child
Upon rescue, Officer Nunez reported that the boy appeared to be in good spirits. "When I found the boy, honestly, he was relatively pretty fine. He was happy to see police officers," Nunez stated. The child was reunited with his parents shortly after being pulled from the storm drain, a moment that Nunez described as "the best thing in the world."
Importance of Project Lifesaver
Gwinnett County police highlighted their collaboration with Project Lifesaver, a program designed to assist in locating individuals with cognitive disorders who may wander. This initiative is particularly significant for families with children on the autism spectrum, as it provides essential support in emergency situations.
Official Statements & Responses
Gwinnett County police emphasized the importance of community awareness and preparedness for incidents involving individuals with cognitive disorders. They reiterated their commitment to utilizing programs like Project Lifesaver to enhance safety and response efforts.
Criticism & Opposition
While the rescue was celebrated, some community members have raised concerns about the potential risks associated with wandering in public spaces, advocating for increased safety measures in parks and recreational areas.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As soon as a call like that comes out, everyone goes,” — Officer Jacob Hugley, Gwinnett County Police
- “When you are there and able to provide that moment of contact back with the parents, it's the best thing in the world.” — Officer Steven Nunez, Gwinnett County Police
This incident underscores the critical role of law enforcement and community programs in ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals.
