A serious incident unfolded over the weekend in Tavares, Florida, where the disappearance of 5-year-old Jace Saunders triggered widespread concern, culminating in the issuance of an Amber Alert. Fortunately, authorities reported on Monday morning, Jace has been found safe.
The Tavares Police Department confirmed Jace was located following leads, leading them to the Lady Lake Police Department early on Monday. His grandmother, 50-year-old Kelly Day-Dasilva, is accused of kidnapping him and is currently in custody. She is expected to be transported to the Tavares Police Department for questioning.
According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), the Amber Alert was activated on Sunday, prompting extensive search efforts for Jace, who was described as semi-verbal and diagnosed with autism. The last sighting of him was reported near the 1000 block of Wells Avenue, where he was wearing black pajamas and a graphic t-shirt.
Jace's parents, Taylor Judy and Brandon Saunders, drew scrutiny as they were arrested simultaneously for interfering with child custody. This arrest followed complications related to their cooperation with authorities investigating the child's welfare. It appears this incident escalated from the Florida Department of Children and Families’ (DCF) involvement, which had resulted earlier on Sunday afternoon when officials were called to remove Jace from relatives' custody.
Before the alert was issued, Jace’s parents reportedly had not complied with prior instructions from law enforcement during the attempts to locate their son. The family dynamic has raised numerous questions, particularly surrounding the circumstances leading to Jace's removal from parental custody.
“Our detectives and officers are still following leads; any assistance from the community would be greatly appreciated,” the police department previously stated on social media during the search for Jace. Kelly Day-Dasilva was believed to have been traveling with Jace, and authorities noted she might be driving a black Honda Accord.
Upon activation of the Amber Alert, families across Florida received notifications providing details about Jace, including his physical description — he stands around 3 feet tall, weighing about 55 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. Concerns were heightened due to his condition; Jace’s autism poses additional risks when left without adequate supervision.
Tavares, located about 30 miles northwest of Orlando, was the center of public alarm as the area witnessed heightened police presence and community efforts to locate the child and his alleged abductor. Local officials urged anyone with information not to approach Day-Dasilva or her vehicle but to immediately contact the authorities instead.
Public awareness during kidnap cases such as this is chiefly driven by the Amber Alert system, which is established to facilitate immediate assistance from the public with locating missing or abducted children. Named after Amber Hagerman, the program is employed when law enforcement believes the child is at imminent risk of harm. Its rapid dissemination strategy — through radio, television, and now smartphones — has been credited with aiding many recoveries since its inception.
Fortunately, after the initial alert was broadcasted, Jace was found safe by police, signaling relief among concerned citizens and his family. Authorities acknowledged Jace’s well-being upon recovery, stating he would be handed over to DCF for his safety and care.
“Jace was confirmed to be safe and in good health,” police affirmed, addressing earlier worries about his safety due to the situation he was thrustinto.
While the immediate crisis has been resolved with Jace’s safety, the legal ramifications for his grandmother and parents may continue to evolve. Kelly Day-Dasilva has been charged with kidnapping and interference with child custody. Pending investigations will likely determine the long-term care arrangements and the parental rights concerning Jace.
For the local community, this event serves as both a reminder of the vulnerabilities children can face and the invaluable role of public vigilance as they unite to protect the most vulnerable.
Authorities continue to piece together the events leading to Jace’s initial disappearance, eager to ascertain the factors surrounding the family’s troubled circumstances.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about local laws, including how the Amber Alert system operates, to strengthen communal safety and awareness around child protection and welfare.
For any inquiries or future sightings, citizens are urged to reach out directly to local law enforcement without delay, ensuring collective responsibility and swift action when responding to such unsettling situations.
