For over a week, the family of 18-year-old Giovanni Pelletier searched tirelessly across Sarasota and Manatee counties, hoping for a safe return. Giovanni, a spirited and adventurous young man from North Carolina, had disappeared under unusual circumstances after sending his mother a brief and concerning message: “Mom, help.”
On Friday afternoon, August 8, 2025, their search came to a heartbreaking conclusion. A body was located in a pond near Interstate 75 and State Road 70 in Manatee County. The discovery was made by a relative of Giovanni who had been assisting in the search efforts.
Although authorities believe the remains are likely Giovanni’s, the condition of the body requires further forensic testing before a positive identification can be made. Investigators have stated that no signs currently point to foul play.
The Day of the Disappearance
Giovanni had traveled to Florida to visit his father’s family in Sarasota. On the morning of August 1, he joined some cousins for a drive. Around 25 minutes into the trip, he sent his mother the urgent text message.
According to information released by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, his cousins said he began behaving unusually during the journey. Concerned, they pulled over, and Giovanni left the vehicle on his own. This would be the last confirmed sighting of him.
Later that day, a truck driver came across Giovanni’s backpack and phone by the roadside. These items were turned over to authorities, but early searches of the surrounding area found no further clues.
A Week Later: The Pond Discovery
Seven days after he went missing, a family searcher spotted something unusual in a retention pond near I-75. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office responded, secured the scene, and arranged for the body to be examined at the District 12 Medical Examiner’s Office.
Autopsy Findings
On Sunday, August 10, the sheriff’s office announced that an autopsy had found no visible signs of injury or trauma. Due to the condition of the remains, visual identification was not possible, and DNA testing is now underway. The cause and manner of death will be determined following toxicology results, which may take several weeks.
Detectives believe the body may have been in the pond for several days. The location is near where Giovanni’s belongings were previously found.
Ongoing Investigation
With no evidence of a struggle, investigators are exploring multiple scenarios, such as a medical emergency or an accident. They continue to review nearby surveillance footage, analyze cell phone data, and speak to potential witnesses to better understand the timeline.
Waiting for Answers
Giovanni’s mother, Bridgette Pelletier, has described the discovery as the most difficult moment of her life. While she is grateful for the community’s support, she continues to seek clarity about her son’s final hours.
Friends and family remember Giovanni as loyal, funny, and adventurous. He had a passion for travel, enjoyed trying new things, and cared deeply for those close to him.
How Environmental Conditions Affect Identification
Experts note that Florida’s warm climate and high humidity can affect the speed of natural processes, making identification more complex. In such cases, dental records and DNA analysis become essential tools for confirmation.
Community Support
Since the discovery, many have reached out to the Pelletier family with messages of comfort. Prayer vigils have been held in Giovanni’s hometown, and volunteers in Florida have offered assistance with search and logistical efforts. Online, messages of solidarity and remembrance continue to be shared.
Honoring Giovanni’s Memory
Giovanni’s loved ones want him to be remembered for his vibrant personality and the joy he brought to those around him. Plans are underway for memorial services that reflect his adventurous nature and love for family.