A non-verbal 13-year-old was found dead in a Port St. Lucie lake on Sunday, according to the Port St. Lucie Police Department. The discovery of Roger Rivera’s body has left the Central Park community and St. Lucie County residents in shock.

Non-Verbal 13-Year-Old Missing in Port St. Lucie

The main keyword, Port St. Lucie non-verbal teen, is central to this tragic incident. On Sunday afternoon, Roger Rivera was reported missing after last being seen at the 11000 block of SW Macelli Way in the Central Park neighborhood.

According to Port St. Lucie Police Chief Leo Niemczyk, Rivera was playing in the backyard with his mother when he suddenly ran away. Despite her efforts, his mother was unable to reach him before he disappeared from view.

Search Efforts in Central Park Community

Authorities initiated a search for the missing non-verbal teenager in Port St. Lucie soon after he was reported missing. Police, family members, and neighbors joined efforts to locate Rivera, focusing on the areas surrounding his home.

The search intensified when Rivera’s iPad was found near a body of water close to the family’s residence. This clue led officers to concentrate their efforts around the nearby lake, reminiscent of other tragic incidents involving water in the region, such as when a Fort Pierce man, aged 82, died after a lake rescue incident.

Timeline of the Incident

• 2:00 p.m. – Roger Rivera last seen at home on SW Macelli Way.
• Afternoon – Family and police begin search after reporting him missing.
• Evening – Rivera’s iPad located near a lake.
• Just before 7:00 p.m. – Rivera’s body recovered from the lake by Port St. Lucie Police.

Port St. Lucie Police Response

The Port St. Lucie Police Department quickly mobilized resources to search for the missing child. Officers canvassed the Central Park community and nearby areas, using all available information to guide their efforts.

Chief Niemczyk confirmed that the search was treated as a top priority due to Rivera’s age and non-verbal status. The department worked closely with the family and community members throughout the operation.

Lake Safety in Port St. Lucie Neighborhoods

This incident highlights the presence of lakes and water bodies in many Port St. Lucie residential communities. While these features are common throughout St. Lucie County, they can pose risks for children, particularly those with special needs.

Authorities recommend the following safety measures for families living near water:

• Install secure fencing around lakes and ponds
• Supervise children at all times when outdoors
• Use tracking devices for children with a history of wandering
• Educate neighbors about vulnerable residents in the area

Resources for Families of Non-Verbal Children

Several organizations in St. Lucie County offer support and resources for families of non-verbal or special needs children. Services include safety workshops, communication tools, and emergency planning assistance. The importance of vigilance is underscored by heartbreaking events, such as when a Port St. Lucie toddler fatally shot himself, leading to the arrest of his mother and her fiancé.

Families are encouraged to connect with local support groups and the Port St. Lucie Police Department for guidance on keeping children safe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Port St. Lucie Non-Verbal Teen

What happened to the non-verbal 13-year-old in Port St. Lucie?

Roger Rivera, a non-verbal 13-year-old, was reported missing on Sunday and later found dead in a lake near his home in the Central Park community. Police recovered his body just before 7 p.m.

How did authorities search for the missing teen in Port St. Lucie?

Port St. Lucie Police, along with family and neighbors, searched the area after Rivera was reported missing. They focused on the area near his home and found his iPad by a nearby lake, which led to the recovery of his body.

Are there safety recommendations for families with non-verbal children in PSL?

Yes, authorities recommend installing secure barriers around water, supervising children closely, and using tracking devices if needed. Local support groups also offer safety resources for families in Port St. Lucie.

Can you get help from the Port St. Lucie Police Department for special needs children?

Families in Port St. Lucie can contact the police department for guidance on safety planning and available resources for children with special needs, including non-verbal children.

Where are the most common areas for incidents like this in St. Lucie County?

Many residential communities in Port St. Lucie and St. Lucie County have lakes or ponds, which can be risky for children. Parents are urged to be extra cautious in neighborhoods like Central Park and similar developments.

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