A 5-year-old girl with Down syndrome was safely located just minutes after being reported missing, thanks to the York County Sheriff’s Office and the recently launched Project Lifesaver program.
The child wandered away from her home on Dayton Road around 6:00 p.m. on April 17. Deputies Sgt. Gilbert and Deputy Osborne quickly responded to the call and deployed handheld receivers linked to the Project Lifesaver system. Within just seven minutes, the girl was found inside a parked car located two streets away.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the child had been trapped in the vehicle for approximately 20 minutes and was unable to get out on her own. Fortunately, she was found unharmed and returned safely to her family.
Sheriff Tony Breeden praised the deputies for their swift and decisive response, noting that their quick action likely prevented a far more serious outcome. He also underscored the success of the Project Lifesaver program, calling it a vital resource for families with loved ones who are prone to wandering due to cognitive conditions or developmental disabilities.
Project Lifesaver uses radio-frequency technology to track individuals who are enrolled in the program. The system is designed specifically for people living with conditions such as autism, Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive challenges that increase the risk of wandering.
Families interested in enrolling a loved one in the program—or learning more about how to support it—can find additional information through the York County Sheriff’s Office website.
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