News Summary
The body of 12-year-old Bryan Vasquez, who had autism and went missing earlier this month, was found in a canal in New Orleans East. After days of extensive searching involving volunteers and local authorities, his body was discovered by a drone. The police investigation has shifted to a death probe as officials work to determine the circumstances surrounding his passing, and the community mourns the loss of a bright young boy.
New Orleans – The body of Bryan Vasquez, a 12-year-old boy with autism who was reported missing earlier this month, has been discovered in a canal in New Orleans East. On August 26, 2025, at approximately 8 a.m., search volunteer Jon Gusanders utilized a drone to locate Bryan’s body floating in a marsh area near the canal, nearly 200 yards from his home on Beaucaire Street. His disappearance on August 14, 2025, prompted a large-scale search operation that involved local and state authorities, as well as countless volunteers from multiple states, including Texas and Mississippi.
Authorities confirmed that Bryan, who was nonverbal and autistic, went missing after climbing out a window. Surveillance footage captured him wandering near Sevres Street, just before he disappeared. The outcome of the search has transitioned the New Orleans Police Department’s investigation from a missing persons case to a death investigation. Currently, foul play has not been ruled out and an autopsy will be conducted by the Orleans Parish Coroner to determine the cause of death.
Following the discovery, NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick noted the tragic turn of events, as the community mourned the loss of a boy described as “bright, charismatic, and energetic.” Bryan’s joyful spirit had left a significant mark on those who knew him. His family and friends expressed their sorrow during this critical time.
Search Efforts and Community Response
After Bryan’s disappearance, a massive multi-agency search was initiated, involving local authorities and numerous volunteers. Individuals from as far away as Mexico traveled to New Orleans to assist in the search. Volunteers like Jon Gusanders dedicated significant time and energy, searching tirelessly for nearly 12 days.
The search covered various areas around the Village De L’Est neighborhood, employing drones, dogs, and traditional searching methods. Despite extensive efforts, Bryan was not found until the drone conducted another search of the area, which had already been cleared by earlier teams. The ground in the area was noted to be soft, and there was decay in local vegetation, contributing to the challenges faced by search crews.
Public Sentiment and Ongoing Investigation
Community members expressed disbelief and deep sadness regarding the delayed discovery of Bryan. During the lengthy search, many residents chose to participate actively, helping law enforcement with their investigations. The city of New Orleans has offered condolences to Bryan’s family and friends, emphasizing that his memory will serve as a reminder of love and resilience.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge any potential witnesses or individuals with information regarding Bryan’s disappearance or circumstances surrounding his death to come forward. Efforts remain focused on fully understanding what transpired during the days leading up to his tragic end.
Conclusion
The finding of Bryan Vasquez’s body has brought a somber conclusion to a community that rallied together in hope for his safe return. As the city mourns, it reflects on the importance of vigilance for vulnerable individuals, while authorities work diligently to discover the full truth behind the events that led to this heart-wrenching outcome.
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Additional Resources
- WDSU: New Orleans Family Search Warrant Bryan Vasquez
- Wikipedia: Bryan Vasquez
- Fox 8 Live: Body Found Near Home of Missing 12-Year-Old Bryan Vasquez
- Google Search: Bryan Vasquez
- WWLTV: Body of Bryan Vasquez Found
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Person
- NOLA: Bryan Vasquez Dead in New Orleans
- Google News: Bryan Vasquez
- People: Missing Boy Bryan Vasquez Found Dead
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
