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Earlier this week, an eight-year-old nonverbal boy with autism went missing from his home in Milford, Massachusetts, after escaping through a partially opened first-floor window. His family immediately contacted authorities, and the Milford Police Department responded, including Officer Brian Sanchioni and his K-9 partner, Titan.
The dog picked up the boy’s trail near a stream across from the residence and followed it for about 600 feet. There, Titan jumped into the water and led Sanchioni to a small bridge, where the missing child was found clinging to a tree, partially submerged up to his stomach. The boy was frightened but uninjured, and he was quickly reunited with his family before being taken to Milford Regional Medical Center for evaluation.
The boy’s sister, Kimberly Rivera, expressed deep gratitude, saying she doesn’t think they would have been able to find her brother without Titan. Milford Police Chief Robert Tusino praised the K-9 team, saying that the outcome shows the vital role they play on the force. The department was thankful for the quick response and successful rescue during what they describe as a "dire hour" for the family.
Source: PEOPLE