9-year-old girl drowns in retention pond

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — A 9-year-old autistic girl is dead after drowning in a retention pond near the Chelsea Square apartment community, Kissimmee police said.

Police responded to the 2100 block of Avon Boulevard, late Saturday night after a child was reported missing.

"We didn't know what was going on, the cop was like 'have you seen a little girl, 9 years old with

The child was located in a retention pond on the property.  She was unresponsive and pronounced dead at the scene.

According to police, it appears to be an accidental drowning.

The child's aunt said her niece was autistic and only knew about 100 words. Her family said they are devastated.

"This is the worst Father's Day we've ever had. I pray this doesn't happen to another child," said Michelie Levrier, the child's aunt.

Cox Media Group