DUNNELLON, Fla. — Authorities in Marion County are urgently searching for 17-year-old Caden Speight, who was kidnapped Thursday afternoon after being ambushed and shot while driving his work truck along SW Highway 484 in Dunnellon.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the case is now being treated as an active kidnapping investigation.
Ambushed in Broad Daylight
According to investigators, the attack unfolded around 4 p.m. near the 12800 block of SW Highway 484, where Speight was operating his work truck.
Deputies say four armed men, believed to be possibly Hispanic, opened fire on the teenager’s vehicle before forcing him into their own. The suspects then fled the scene in a light-colored van, likely with Speight inside.
Despite being struck by gunfire, authorities believe Speight survived the initial attack but remains in serious danger while in the custody of his abductors.
Description of the Victim and Suspects
Speight was last seen wearing blue jeans and a t-shirt when he was taken. Deputies emphasize that if anyone sees him, they should not attempt to approach but immediately contact law enforcement.
The four suspects are described only as possibly Hispanic males. Their identities remain unknown, and the van they fled in has not yet been located.
Law Enforcement’s Plea to the Public
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is urging the public to stay alert and report any information that may help locate the teenager.
“This is an active and extremely dangerous situation,” a sheriff’s office spokesperson said. “We are doing everything in our power to bring Caden home safely, but we need the public’s help.”
Anyone who may have been in the area of SW Highway 484 near Dunnellon around 4 p.m. is asked to contact investigators immediately if they saw suspicious activity or a light-colored van.
Community on Edge
News of the brazen daylight shooting and abduction has shaken the Dunnellon community. Parents and residents have expressed deep concern, fearing for their own safety and the well-being of the missing teenager.
Local officials and community leaders are calling for calm but urging vigilance until more is known.
How to Help
Authorities stress that time is critical in kidnapping cases. Anyone with information about Caden Speight’s whereabouts is urged to call 911 or contact the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at (352) 732-9111.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers of Marion County.
Reported by NewsPulse Reporter | NewsPulse Media