Camilla Jessen
Caden Rex Speight texted his mother that he had been shot and abducted.
Authorities in Marion County, Florida, claim that a 17-year-old who triggered a statewide Amber Alert last week fabricated his abduction story and shot himself as part of the ruse.
Teen’s False Claims
Caden Rex Speight sent a text to his mother claiming he had been shot and abducted by four Hispanic men who were strangers to him.
The message prompted a full Amber Alert in Dunnellon, roughly 80 miles northwest of Orlando.
Speight’s truck and cell phone were found abandoned, causing concern across the state. Authorities now allege the entire account was made up.
Sheriff Details Investigation
Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods stated in a video update Monday that Speight’s story was “completely made up”.
“The initial details that Caden texted to his family were proven to be false, completely made up,” Woods said, as cited by People.
A Bicycle, Tent and Camping Supplies
Woods added that evidence showed Speight purchased a bicycle, tent, and camping supplies just before reporting the alleged abduction.
Surveillance footage reportedly captured him buying the items at a Walmart in Ocala.
Self-Inflicted Gunshot
The sheriff said Speight used a handgun he had possessed from the start of the incident to shoot himself in the leg, causing a non-life-threatening injury.
He then reportedly walked to a roadway where he was found by citizens in Williston.
“There is zero chance that Caden’s gunshot wound came from any type of assailant,” Woods stated.
Public and Law Enforcement Response
Sheriff Woods acknowledged that the public had been deeply concerned during the unfolding investigation.
Law enforcement staff, supported by state and federal agencies, worked extensively to locate the teen.
“Our team was working in overdrive to solve this case,” Woods said.
Family Cooperation and Legal Considerations
The sheriff noted that Speight’s parents have refused to allow detectives to speak with him, which has slowed authorities’ efforts to reach a “true final conclusion.”
The family has not responded to requests for comment.
Authorities emphasized that criminal charges are still possible, and investigators are reviewing the costs of the search and response, which Speight may be asked to reimburse.
This article is made and published by Camilla Jessen, which may have used AI in the preparation
