DUNNELLON, Fla. — A large-scale search operation is underway after 17-year-old Caden Speight was abducted Thursday afternoon in Dunnellon. Authorities say this case is not a runaway, but an active Amber Alert investigation involving multiple agencies.
At approximately 4:00 p.m. on September 25, 2025, Caden sent his mother, Annie Speight, a chilling text:
“Mom, I need help. Four Hispanics in a white van — one driver. I’m shot.”
Moments later, his phone was found broken in half near the 12800 block of SW Highway 484, and he has not been seen or heard from since.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Caden’s truck showed signs of gunfire, leading investigators to believe he was shot and then forced into the van. He was last seen wearing a t-shirt and blue jeans.
A UPS driver reported seeing four Hispanic men with a white van at a roofing site earlier that day. Authorities linked the job to FNF Enterprises, Inc., and are pursuing leads in connection with that sighting.
A major crime scene has been established, and aviation units are conducting aerial sweeps within a 30-mile radius, while K-9 teams search on the ground.
Authorities urge the public to share Caden’s flyer and report any sightings immediately.
📞 If you spot Caden, the suspects, or the light-colored van, call 911 at once.
Marion County Sheriff’s Office: (352) 732-9111
FDLE: 1-888-FL-MISSING (1-888-356-4774)
This is an active investigation. Officials stress the community’s vigilance is critical in bringing Caden home safely.
