The search continues for a North Carolina man who disappeared last month while vacationing in Florida.

Giovanni Pelletier, 18, was last spotted in Mims on August 1. According to Pelletier’s aunt, the family was visiting the family of Pelletier’s mother’s fiancée in Englewood when the teen met with his cousins from his estranged father’s side.

Charlotte County police reported that the cousins claimed Pelletier began acting “erratically” without warning and then inexplicably walked away. However, private investigator Shelley Croft shared with WFLA that 21 minutes after departing Englewood with his cousins, Pelletier texted his mother a message saying “Mom help me.” 

Allegedly, the cousins stated that Pelletier exited the car close to State Road 70 in Manatee County. Both his backpack and cellphone were found in the vicinity, yet he remains missing, as reported by WFLA.

“Somewhere along the ride, something happened,” his aunt told ABC.

Pelletier is believed to have texted other relatives before his disappearance.

A reward of $25,000 is being offered for any information leading to Pelletier’s whereabouts. Those with information should contact the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office at 941-639-2101.

[Feature Photo: Handout]