PASCO COUNTY, FL – A tragic incident unfolded in Pasco County when a six-year-old boy, Corey Chester, was discovered dead after wandering away from his home. Authorities reported the boy’s disappearance late Thursday night in the Crescent Forest community on Ross Lane.
Pasco County Sheriff’s deputies, alongside local residents, embarked on a search that lasted several hours. Corey was ultimately found in a pond within the gated community early Friday morning. His parents, who live just doors away from neighbor Katie Lester, were devastated by the loss.
Lester recalled seeing a flash of a purple shirt while walking her dogs the previous evening. Initially, she dismissed it, but soon realized the gravity of the situation when she heard frantic calls for help. She flagged down law enforcement officers to relay what she had seen.
Corey’s parents shared that their garage door had been left open momentarily while their son was taking out the trash. Tragically, Corey, who had autism, wandered off during this brief window. He was last seen around 8:45 p.m. and was found hours later.
The boy’s parents, overwhelmed with grief, chose not to speak on camera but expressed their sorrow and heartbreak. The community has rallied around them, offering condolences and support during this unimaginably difficult time.
Katie Lester expressed her deep sympathy, stating she cannot fathom the pain the family must be experiencing. “My heart goes out to them,” she said, visibly shaken by the event.
The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that no updates are available at this time regarding the ongoing investigation. The community remains on edge, grappling with the loss of a young life.
As authorities continue to investigate, the Crescent Forest community mourns the loss of Corey Chester, a young boy whose life ended far too soon.