Police in Tavares searching for 5-year-old boy possibly abducted by family without permission

TAVARES, Fla. – Police in Tavares are asking the public’s help locating a missing 5-year-old boy with autism who may be with his grandmother, according to a news release.

Tavares police said that Jace Saunders was last seen in the south side of the city in the area of Summerall Park around 1:19 p.m.

According to the release, police said “it is believed he was taken by family unlawfully during a DCF investigation.”

Police said the boy may be in the custody of his grandmother, Kelly Dasilva, in a black Honda Accord or passenger car. Saunders is described as being semi-verbal, and about 3-feet-tall and wearing dark blue long pajamas with a graphic design on the front.

The photo below is the last time Saunders was confirmed to be seen, according to the release.

Tavares police said they are still at the scene investigating.

If you have any information on Jace Saunders or his whereabouts, please contact the Tavares Police Department agency immediately and reference case number T24120625.