Autistic Girl, 4, Found Alive After 3 Days Missing in Minas Gerais, Brazil

A four-year-old non-verbal autistic girl, Alice Maciel Lacerda Lisboa, was found alive on Saturday (January 31st) after being missing for three days. Alice was last seen in the Bituri district, in the rural area of Jeceaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil.

The Search and Rescue

The search for Alice involved over 100 people and 12 teams from the Minas Gerais Fire Department, who had been actively searching for her for three days. Volunteers played a crucial role in the discovery. A man identified as Guilherme, along with two friends, were searching when they heard a cry.

Did You Know? The search for Alice mobilized more than 100 people and 12 teams from the Minas Gerais Fire Department.

Guilherme recounted asking a friend, Vandinho, to whistle to help locate another friend, Sandrin. Immediately after the whistle, they heard a scream. They then moved towards the sound, which led them to the edge of a wooded area.

The Moment of Discovery

Upon approaching the wooded area, Alice had hidden in the brush. Guilherme and his friends approached cautiously, avoiding startling her. She continued to cry out and when she stood up, Sandrin was able to safely take her hands.

Expert Insight: The successful outcome of this search highlights the importance of community involvement and coordinated efforts in locating missing individuals, particularly vulnerable children. The quick response and persistent search, even after three days, were critical.

The volunteers then brought Alice to a nearby road where firefighters, police, and her grandmother were waiting. Her grandmother immediately took Alice into her arms.

Context and Background

According to reporting by Itatiaia, Alice was visiting her grandmother’s home when she was reported missing on Thursday afternoon. The grandmother was on a phone call at the time and initially believed Alice had gone to swim. Alice’s mother, Karine Maciel, stated that her daughter was wearing swimwear and frequently plays in the pool at her grandmother’s property.

Karine Maciel also noted that, as a non-verbal autistic child, Alice becomes “very stressed” in unfamiliar environments and especially when without her medication.

What Happens Next?

Alice was transported to Hospital Queluz in Conselheiro Lafaiete for evaluation. It’s likely that medical professionals will assess her physical and emotional well-being following her ordeal. Authorities will likely continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding her disappearance. A possible next step could involve a review of safety measures at the property where she was staying to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long was Alice missing?

Alice was missing for three days before being found alive on Saturday, January 31st.

Who found Alice?

Alice was found by Guilherme and two friends who were volunteering in the search effort.

What was Alice doing when she went missing?

Alice was visiting her grandmother’s home and was last seen in the Bituri district of Jeceaba, Minas Gerais. Her grandmother believed she had gone swimming.

What factors might contribute to the challenges faced by autistic children in unfamiliar environments?