The weeks-long search for a missing Davie man has reached a sorrowful conclusion. Hunter Raymond Gutierrez, who disappeared in June, has been found deceased. According to a WSVN report, police discovered a body in a local lake this past Thursday. Although the remains have not been officially identified by the medical examiner, Gutierrez's family confirmed in a social media post that it was the 30-year-old who had vanished from his home in the Imagination Farms area of Davie.
Gutierrez was last sighted near his residence on Southwest 39th Street, prompting a search that extended through neighboring communities. Davie Police have yet to confirm the deceased's identity officially, but the family's acknowledgment has seemingly brought an end to the search. Gutierrez left his home without taking any personal items, such as his wallet and cellphone, which, according to a NBC Miami report, was a detail that underscored his potentially vulnerable state. The Davie Police Department had previously flagged him as a "missing endangered person" in light of his history of mental health concerns.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, which brought news of his passing, the Gutierrez family expressed their "deep appreciation" for the community's support. "With heavy hearts we regret to share that Hunter was found yesterday. It is hard to express the depths of our sadness facing the loss of such a warm and loving son/brother," the family said. They also thanked their "fire family," referring to Hunter's father, Bill Gutierrez, a retired Hollywood Fire captain with over three decades of service.
The extensive search efforts, marked by concerted community action including flyers and active engagement from residents, were previously documented by Hoodline. The police, alongside community members, rallied to find Gutierrez, who struggled with mental health issues such as depression. In closing, authorities and mental health advocates continue to highlight the importance of resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and 211 services, which remain available around the clock for individuals facing mental health challenges.
