MANATEE COUNTY, FL — A desperate search is underway for 18-year-old Giovonni Pelletier, who mysteriously vanished in the early hours of Friday morning while on a family vacation in Florida. The teen, originally from out of state, was last seen walking along a dark stretch of State Road 70 near Interstate 75 in Manatee County, according to local law enforcement officials.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. on August 1, when Giovonni reportedly exited a vehicle he had been traveling in with relatives. He had been staying in Englewood, Florida, visiting extended family during what was supposed to be a peaceful getaway. Instead, the trip has turned into a nightmare for the Pelletier family.
Last Known Movements
According to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Giovonni was a passenger in a car heading north on I-75 when he began acting erratically, prompting concern among his cousins. For reasons still under investigation, the teen exited the vehicle near SR-70 and walked away into the night.
Around the same time, Giovonni texted his mother and other family members asking for help, suggesting he may have been in distress or fearful. That would be the last known communication from him.
“Please Help”
The family, speaking to reporters and sharing updates through social media, described Giovonni’s messages as urgent and alarming, raising fears that he may have been experiencing a mental health crisis or was in danger.
“He just sent this message saying he needed help. And then… nothing,” said one relative. “That’s not like him. We’re all terrified. He’s never done anything like this before.”
Authorities say the circumstances surrounding his behavior and disappearance remain unclear. There is no evidence at this time of foul play, but investigators have not ruled anything out.
Community Rallies as Search Intensifies
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office and local search teams have been coordinating efforts to locate Giovonni, deploying ground patrols and requesting public assistance in the case. Officials are asking anyone who was driving through the SR-70/I-75 area in the early hours of Friday morning to check dashcam footage for possible sightings of the missing teen.
The family has also taken to social media with photos and messages of hope, pleading for anyone with information to come forward.
“He’s 18. He’s kind-hearted, smart, and always thinking of others,” his mother said. “He was just trying to enjoy a vacation. We need to bring him home safe.”
Ongoing Investigation
The case is currently being treated as a missing persons investigation, and law enforcement is working with local agencies and organizations that assist in locating endangered or vulnerable individuals.
Giovonni’s disappearance has drawn attention across Florida and beyond, as friends, family, and concerned strangers share his story online.
He is described as:
- 18 years old
- Approximately 6’0” tall
- Brown eyes
- Dark hair
- Last seen wearing an unknown shirt and shorts
If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Giovonni Pelletier, you are urged to contact the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office at 941-639-2101 immediately.
A Mother’s Plea
“I just want my son back,” his mother said through tears. “If you saw him, if you know anything—no matter how small—please help us. We just want to know he’s okay.”
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as new details emerge.
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