Giovanni Pelletier found — a body has been recovered from a Florida retention pond close to where the missing Fuquay-Varina teen’s phone last pinged. The discovery was made near the southbound ramp of Interstate 75 at State Road 70 in Manatee County. Authorities have confirmed the body is male, but the identity has not yet been officially released.
Giovanni, 18, vanished on August 1, 2025, while visiting relatives in Florida. According to family members, he was last seen after being picked up by cousins in Englewood, planning to travel toward Bradenton. Roughly 20 minutes later, he sent a chilling text to his mother that read, “Mom, help.”
His relatives claim that he began acting strangely before exiting the vehicle near SR-70. Later, his phone and backpack were found abandoned by the roadside in the same area. Search teams have since focused on the surrounding fields, wooded patches, and water bodies.
Table of Contents
Timeline of Key Events
- August 1, 2025 – Giovanni leaves Englewood with cousins.
- ~1:30 a.m. – Sends “Mom, help” text to his mother.
- Shortly after – Allegedly exits the vehicle near SR-70 and I-75.
- Later that morning – Phone and backpack discovered abandoned.
- August 8, 2025 – Male body found in retention pond near last phone ping.
Family’s Search and Concerns
Giovanni’s family has expressed deep concern over conflicting accounts from relatives who were with him that night. His mother insists that his behavior described by others is inconsistent with his usual demeanor.
Volunteers and nonprofit search organizations joined the effort, conducting foot searches, drone scans, and water checks. A $10,000 reward has been offered for credible information that leads to answers in the case.
Investigation Status
Authorities are treating the case with urgency. The area where the body was recovered is within a short distance of where Giovanni was last known to be. While investigators work to identify the remains, they are also reviewing witness statements, phone records, and nearby surveillance footage.
Community Reaction
The case has drawn significant attention in both North Carolina and Florida. Friends, neighbors, and supporters have been sharing Giovanni’s photos and updates online, urging people in the region to report any information that could help.
What Happens Next
Law enforcement officials are expected to conduct a formal identification through medical examination. Until confirmation is made, Giovanni’s status remains that of a missing person. The family is asking for privacy while they await official word, but they remain hopeful for clarity and justice.
Anyone with potential information is encouraged to contact local authorities immediately. The smallest detail could prove vital to solving this case.
The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as the investigation continues. Readers are encouraged to stay alert for further developments and share any verified tips.