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49m ago

Sheriff Says Florida Teen Faked Abduction, Shot Himself to Sustain Ruse

Detectives point to camping-gear purchases as prosecutors weigh potential charges.

{p}The case began on September 25, when 17-year-old Caden Speight was reported missing near SW Highway 484 in Dunnellon. Authorities initially believed Speight had been shot and abducted by four Hispanic men in a light-colored van, prompting the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to issue an Amber Alert.{/p}
The case began on September 25, when 17-year-old Caden Speight was reported missing near SW Highway 484 in Dunnellon. Authorities initially believed Speight had been shot and abducted by four Hispanic men in a light-colored van, prompting the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to issue an Amber Alert. (Marion Co. Sheriff's Office)
{p}Speight was last seen wearing blue jeans and an unknown colored t-shirt. He was described as 6 feet tall, weighing 150 pounds, with brown hair and eyes. However, the investigation quickly shifted when deputies discovered Speight had purchased a bicycle, tent, and camping supplies at a Walmart in Ocala just before reporting the incident. (Marion Co. Sheriff's Office){ }{/p}

Overview

  • The Florida Department of Law Enforcement issued an AMBER Alert on Thursday after texts to his family claimed he was shot and taken by four men.
  • Investigators later found his truck near evidence of a single gunshot and determined the account was false.
  • Records show he bought a bicycle, tent and camping supplies beforehand, and deputies say he rode toward Williston.
  • Williston police located the 17-year-old on Friday with a non-life-threatening leg wound; he has been identified as Caden Speight in some reports.
  • Detectives say his parents have declined to allow an interview, and the sheriff says possible criminal charges remain under review.