Hillsborough County deputies are in the midst of an investigation following the tragic death of a six-year-old autistic child in Brandon. According to FOX 13 News, the authorities received a distress call concerning a missing child shortly before 4 p.m. on Sunday. The young child was later discovered in a body of water, in a timeline that is still being pieced together by local officials.

Efforts to save the child's life were undertaken immediately after deputies found them in the water. Sadly, despite these efforts, the child was pronounced dead after being taken to a local hospital. The exact circumstances surrounding how the child ended up in the water have yet to be clarified, and as of this writing, WFLA reports that this remains a subject of ongoing investigation by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO).

The community has been struck by the loss, with many expressing their condolences and concerns over child safety, particularly for those with autism, who might be more prone to wandering behaviors. Authorities have not released further information about the identity of the child or the family, as investigative procedures and protocols are being followed.

As the HCSO continues its investigation to ascertain the chain of events leading up to the tragedy, the case stands as a stark reminder of the critical importance of vigilance and protective measures for children with special needs. Further updates are expected as the Hillsborough County authorities delve deeper into the incident.