Deputies in Lake County and local volunteers are continuing their search for 14-year-old Blayne Caruso, who was last seen entering the woods near his home in Umatilla on Saturday afternoon. Blayne reportedly left with minimal belongings and without a clear plan, prompting growing concerns for his safety.

The local community has organized a community search effort and is asking for help from anyone available to assist. The staging area for volunteers will be at the Florida Elk Youth Camp on Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Volunteers are encouraged to come prepared with appropriate clothing for cold weather and be mindful of ongoing efforts by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

Search teams will include horses, ATVs, airboats, land navigation teams, and individuals on foot. The sheriff’s office has also deployed helicopters, drones, and mounted deputies to cover the extensive Sawgrass Island Preserve area.

Blayne is an eighth grader at Umatilla Middle School and has seven siblings awaiting his return. His family and the sheriff’s office have emphasized the urgency of the search as concerns grow with each passing day.

Anyone with information about Blayne Caruso’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Lake County Sheriff’s Office immediately. Community members are also asked to share updates and help spread the word.