The search for 18-year-old Giovanni Pelletier ended in tragedy when his body was found Friday in a Florida retention pond… days after he vanished and sent his mother a chilling plea for help.
Giovanni, from Fuquay-Varina, NC, was on vacation in Englewood, Florida when he left with cousins from his estranged father’s side early on August 1. Shortly after, he texted “Mom, help” to his mother and similar messages to other relatives.
Family members say the cousins’ stories about that night have changed, raising suspicion. Investigators say Giovanni left their car near State Road 70 before disappearing. His backpack and phone were found nearby.
Relatives launched their own search, using ATVs and drones, until his body was discovered. The cause of death remains under investigation, and the white Chevy Malibu he traveled in has been seized by authorities.
