“Marion County Sheriff Targets Teen for Fake Amber Alert Hoax”

MARION COUNTY, Fla. – The Marion County Sheriff’s Office has released more details after a 17-year-old boy was reported missing last week, identifying the situation as a “ruse.”

In a release on Monday, Sheriff Billy Woods took to social media, discussing the details of the case.

Initially, an Amber Alert was activated, indicating that 17-year-old Caden Speight had gone missing in Dunnellon, potentially accompanied by four Hispanic males and using a van.

Investigators revealed there was shooting evidence, finding the teenager’s abandoned vehicle. Additionally, Speight had reportedly informed a family member of a possible abduction by four men in a van, and his phone was discovered at the disappearance site.

But less than a day later, the sheriff’s office revealed that these initial claims had been “unfounded.”

“The original story Caden texted his family turned out to be fabricated,” Woods stated on Monday. “While we did uncover evidence of a single gunshot where Caden left his truck, his allegations of being shot and abducted were soon discredited.”

The sheriff’s department reported that prior to the event, Caden stopped at several locations, including a Walmart, where he bought a bicycle, tent, and sleeping bag.

“There were initially numerous warning signs, but a comprehensive investigation was necessary until proven otherwise,” Woods elaborated. “We also received witness accounts that contradicted the original claims. Caden simply traveled toward Willison while we feared the worst,” Woods added.

In addition, Woods announced that Speight had a handgun with him since “the beginning of all this” and chose to shoot himself in the leg.

Then, Speight walked out to a roadway in Williston, where he was ultimately discovered by residents there, Woods added.

“Many of you have asked, ‘Will Caden be facing any charges?’ ‘What about the taxpayer cost of this large-scale investigation and search?’” Woods stated. “I can tell you those items are not off the table at this point.”

The sheriff’s office said that investigators are still processing all of the evidence in this case.

However, Speight’s parents have refused to let detectives speak with him, Woods claimed.

“Again, thank you, citizens, for your tips and information that you sent in, and when we do have any updated information on this case, we will provide you with that,” Woods finished.