The Baldwin County community is grappling with the tragic end to a days-long search for a missing teenager. Jeffrey Epps, a 15-year-old with autism, was found dead in Baldwin County, as officially confirmed by local authorities. According to FOX5 Atlanta, Epps’ body was discovered around 6:15 p.m. Wednesday, after he was reported missing nearly three days prior. Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office asked the public to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult period, their pain, the specter of their lost love and hope – unquantifiable. “At this difficult time, we ask that the privacy of Jeffrey’s family be respected. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this challenging period,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.
The search, which spanned over more than 4,000 acres, initially involved a dive team that investigated a pond early Wednesday morning but did not immediately find Epps. It was after the pond was pumped, Chief Deputy Scott Deason indicated, that the search turned into a recovery operation. Deason, in a sentiment tinged with grief and reverence, told 11Alive, “I’m sad to inform you, he walks with God now.”…