Body found in pond near I-75 believed to be missing 18-year-old Giovanni Pelletier
Updated: 7:42 PM EDT Aug 9, 2025
Authorities believe a body discovered in a retention pond near I-75 and State Road 70 in Manatee County is that of 18-year-old Giovanni Pelletier.
The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office has preliminarily identified the body, which was located at the southbound ramp. A positive identification is forthcoming, and an autopsy is scheduled for Sunday.
MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. —
Pelletier, who was vacationing with family in Englewood, was reported missing after he exited a vehicle around 1:30 a.m. on August 1.
His cousins indicated that he had been acting erratically before leaving the car on State Road 70.
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office had spearheaded the search for Pelletier over the last week. Sadly, family and search volunteers have been working tirelessly, hoping for his safe return.
The heartbreaking news impacted the community, who had been yearning for updates about Giovanni’s safety. A search group expressed their sorrow, acknowledging the grief of his family during this difficult time.
As investigations continue, the community remains in mourning, with many honoring his memory and offering thoughts and prayers for the Pelletier family.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
- Missing Person: Giovanni Pelletier, 18 years old
- Last Seen: August 1, near State Road 70 in Manatee County
- Body Found: Confirmed near I-75 at southbound ramp
- Investigation: Underway with autopsy scheduled
- Community Response: Search efforts by family, friends, and local volunteers
Article original publish date: 2025-08-09 07:00:00
Article source: www.gulfcoastnewsnow.com
Read the full story at the original source: www.gulfcoastnewsnow.com
