DUNNELLON, FL — Authorities have issued an Amber Alert for 17-year-old Caden Speight following a harrowing incident in which he was shot and kidnapped, according to the Dunnellon Police Department. The alert comes just hours after the teenager’s frantic call to his mother, reporting that four men had forced him into a white van.
According to the initial report, Caden Speight, a local high school student, contacted his mother in a distressing phone call, saying, “Mom, I need help. Four Hispanics in a white van — one driving…” before the call abruptly ended. Police confirmed that Speight had been shot prior to being abducted, though the extent of his injuries has not yet been publicly disclosed.
Authorities say the suspects are described as four Hispanic males driving a white van. Details about the vehicle’s make, model, and license plate are currently under investigation, and local law enforcement is urging anyone with information to come forward immediately.
Dunnellon Police Chief [Name] emphasized the urgency of the situation in a press briefing: “We are treating this as an active and extremely serious case. Our top priority is the safe recovery of Caden Speight. We urge anyone who may have seen a white van matching this description or any suspicious activity in the area to contact law enforcement immediately.”
The Amber Alert has been disseminated across the region, with checkpoints and increased patrols in neighboring counties. Authorities are also reviewing traffic cameras and seeking assistance from the public to track the vehicle and suspects.
Community members have expressed shock and concern over the incident. Neighbors describe the Speight family as well-known and active in local events, adding to the community’s anxiety about the teenager’s safety.
The FBI and Florida Department of Law Enforcement have reportedly joined the investigation to provide additional resources in the search for Caden Speight and to assist in apprehending the suspects.
Police are advising residents to remain vigilant, avoid approaching suspicious vehicles, and immediately report any potential leads to 911 or the Dunnellon Police Department. The investigation is ongoing, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.
This case underscores the importance of rapid response in kidnapping and violent incidents, particularly when minors are involved. Authorities stress that public cooperation is crucial to ensuring Caden Speight’s safe return
