The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office’s aircraft unit utilized thermal imaging to help deputies locate a missing 5-year-old in a marsh near Tampa.
Sheriff Chad Chronister said the girl, who has autism, wandered out from her house Monday evening and was soon reported missing.
The thermal camera captured photographs of the small child strolling in ankle-deep water.
“Hey, I think I got her in the woods,” a deputy in the aircraft informed deputies on the ground. “She may be able to hear her name if you call her. She might be roughly 80 feet ahead of you.”
A body camera recording captured the moment deputies made contact with the toddler.
A deputy called her name and raised his arms. The tiny girl also raised her arms and approached him. He instantly grabbed up the youngster.
“Let us get you out of the water. “I’ll get you to everyone,” he assured her as they headed back through the woods.
“Their quick action saved the day, turning a potential tragedy into a hopeful reunion,” the sheriff’s office said. “Their dedication shows what service and protection are all about here at the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.”