Florida sheriff releases footage and information about the case of 18-year-old who was found deceased in a pond.

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. – The body of a missing teen, Giovanni Pelletier, was discovered in Manatee County on August 8, after having been reported missing on August 1 from Charlotte County under suspicious circumstances. Sheriff Rick Wells has provided details surrounding the case, including Pelletier’s last known whereabouts before his tragic end.

At the time of his disappearance, Pelletier was supposed to be picked up by his cousin along with two others for a trip to Brevard County. During the journey, they reportedly smoked marijuana, which caused Pelletier to exhibit alarming behavior, describing himself as a “demon” and making threats. Disturbingly, he sent two texts to his mother that simply stated “help,” followed by the word “me.”

Upon realizing Pelletier was carrying a knife, the driver pulled over on I-75 in Manatee County. Pelletier exited the vehicle and was later seen on traffic cameras running across the highway, almost being struck by a semi-truck. Surveillance footage from a Lowe’s store, situated two miles from where the car stopped, captured him running down a steep embankment and disappearing into a retention pond.

Pelletier’s body was located a week later in the retention pond. Following this, his cousin contacted family, which prompted the reporting of his missing status. Investigators have spoken to the cousin and other friends involved, who maintained a consistent story throughout the investigation.

Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey previously stated there was no evidence that Pelletier had entered Brevard County. As for potential foul play, Sheriff Wells has indicated there is none suspected, noting that no trauma was found on Pelletier’s body. Authorities are currently awaiting toxicology results to determine the presence of any other substances in his system.

As of now, no charges have been filed in the case.

Key Information

• Victim: Giovanni Pelletier, 18 years old
• Missing Since: August 1, 2025
• Found: August 8, 2025, in a retention pond in Manatee County
• Last Seen: Running across I-75, nearly struck by a truck
• Toxicology Results: Awaited to determine presence of substances
• Cousin’s Role: Contacted family regarding missing status
• Current Status: No charges have been filed; no foul play suspected