Local Family and Lafayette Police Team Up to Save Young Autistic Boy

A feel-good story out of Lafayette is too good not to tell, especially since it reminds us of the kindness that exists in our community.

Ms. Cywella Brown and her family were driving in the area of Westchester Drive near Johnston Street when they spotted a little boy, about two to four years old, alone and barely dressed in a yard. Concerned, they turned their car around to check on him. Just then, the boy started running towards the busy street. Ms. Brown’s daughter quickly ran after him and brought him to safety.

The boy could only say his first name and that he liked pools. Ms. Brown called the Lafayette Police Department for help. Officers Phillip Daspit and Coty Michelli arrived quickly. While Officer Michelli kept the boy safe in their car, Officer Daspit searched the neighborhood to find where he lived. They eventually figured out where he lived by the color of his mom's car—one of the few details they got from the young boy.

It turned out the little boy was four years old and autistic. He had wandered off without his mom noticing. The officers brought him back home safely. The police also took down their information to ensure they could help faster if it ever happened again.

This story shows how alert citizens and caring police can make a big difference. This is just another reason why we love calling Lafayette home.