Another Autistic Child Drowns in Port St. Lucie

Third local drowning involving an autistic child in 7 months renews focus on prevention and resources

Mar. 10, 2026 at 10:48pm

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Another child with autism has been found dead in a body of water in Port St. Lucie, marking the third local drowning reported by CBS12 News involving an autistic child in the city in the last seven months. Police say the latest case happened Monday night, when officers found 5-year-old Zam Tuang in a nearby retention pond after a search. This tragedy follows two similar incidents in November 2025 and August 2025, highlighting a persistent and painful pattern in the community.

Why it matters

Children on the autism spectrum are at higher risk of wandering, and many are drawn to water due to its sensory appeal. These cases underscore the need for greater awareness, prevention strategies, and resources to protect vulnerable children in the community.

The details

Officers and fire rescue crews performed CPR for an extended period, but Zam was pronounced dead at the hospital around 11 p.m. The previous incidents involved a non-verbal 5-year-old boy found dead in a lake after an extensive search in November 2025, and a 13-year-old autistic teen who drowned in a canal in August 2025, prompting PSL Police to warn families about increased wandering risks.

  • The latest incident occurred on Monday night.
  • A similar incident happened in November 2025.
  • Another incident occurred in August 2025.

The players

Zam Tuang

A 5-year-old child with autism who drowned in a retention pond in Port St. Lucie.

Marlene Sotelo

The Executive Director of Els for Autism, who is discussing behavioral tendencies, sensory factors, and prevention strategies for families.

Gene Saunders

The founder of Project Lifesaver, who is sharing tools and technology that can help locate missing children faster, including tracking bracelets.

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What’s next

Experts are discussing behavioral tendencies, sensory factors, and prevention strategies for families, as well as tools and technology that can help locate missing children faster.

The takeaway

These tragic drownings underscore the urgent need for greater awareness, prevention strategies, and resources to protect vulnerable children with autism in the Port St. Lucie community. Families, schools, and local authorities must work together to address this persistent and heartbreaking issue.