PLANT CITY, Fla. — The Plant City community is mourning amid heartbreaking uncertainty following the discovery of a body inside a submerged truck during the search for Derek Smith, a 50-year-old man reported missing by his family.
Deputies with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office recovered a truck from a retention pond on Tuesday and confirmed that a deceased individual was found inside the vehicle. The recovery occurred while authorities were actively searching for Smith, who had last been seen Sunday. Officials have not yet formally confirmed the identity of the person found.
Family members and loved ones had spent days searching for Smith and gathered near the pond as deputies conducted recovery efforts. The scene was filled with grief, silence, and anxious anticipation as relatives waited for answers.
Investigators said security footage from a nearby residence appears to show a truck speeding into the pond during the early morning hours. Authorities have not released details about what may have led up to the incident, and the cause and manner of death have not yet been determined.
As of Tuesday evening, family and friends remained at the scene, holding onto hope while preparing for devastating confirmation. Officials stated that positive identification will be made following official procedures and notification of next of kin.
The loss has deeply impacted the Plant City community, as friends, neighbors, and loved ones mourn a life believed to have ended far too soon. Authorities said updates will be provided as the investigation continues.
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