An urgent search is underway for 18-year-old Giovanni Pelletier, who vanished during a trip to Florida to reconnect with his father’s side of the family. Giovanni’s disappearance has left his family and the community deeply concerned, as new details continue to emerge about the troubling circumstances surrounding his vanishing.
What Happened
Giovanni Pelletier went missing on August 1, 2025, after leaving Englewood, Florida. He was last seen heading out to meet three of his paternal cousins. Less than 30 minutes after leaving, Giovanni sent his mother a distressing text that read, “Mom help,” followed by several unsuccessful calls and texts. His belongings, including his backpack and phone, were later discovered abandoned on the roadside in Bradenton, Florida, sparking further concern.
Who Is Giovanni Pelletier
Giovanni Pelletier, an 18-year-old African American teen from North Carolina, was on a trip to reconnect with his family in Florida. Born in Florida and raised in North Carolina, Giovanni had recently turned 18 in April and expressed an interest in learning more about his African American heritage. Known for his caring nature and strong family values, Giovanni is remembered by his mother as a “young man with a heart of gold,” who looked out for his siblings, including his younger brother with autism.
Background or Timeline
- July 29, 2025: Giovanni travels with his mother, siblings, and her fiancé to visit a relative in Florida who was undergoing chemotherapy.
- August 1, 2025: Giovanni arranges to meet with his cousins around 1:30 a.m. in Englewood, Florida.
- Shortly after: Giovanni texts his mother saying, “Mom help,” and attempts to call her.
- Later that morning: His family learns from Giovanni’s grandfather that he had been left on the side of the road in Bradenton, FL, following a confrontation with his cousins.
- August 2, 2025: Giovanni’s phone and backpack are discovered abandoned by his mother using GPS tracking.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The news of Giovanni’s disappearance has captured widespread attention, with social media platforms filled with concerned messages, shared memories, and calls for help. Giovanni’s mother, Bridgette, has been vocal in her distress, and community members have expressed their support for the search efforts. Friends, family, and strangers alike are rallying to help bring Giovanni home.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office, along with authorities from Brevard County, is actively investigating Giovanni’s disappearance. Law enforcement is examining multiple theories, including the altercation described by his cousins, but Giovanni’s mother remains doubtful of their version of events. She believes her son did not run away and insists that the involvement of his cousins must be further investigated. A reward of $10,000 has been offered for information leading to Giovanni’s safe return.
Closing:
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The post Missing Person Alert: Giovanni Pelletier Disappears During Florida Trip first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
