Florida Boy with Autism Meets Tragic Fate: Marijuana-Related Negligence Suspected

SANFORD, FL — A 3-year-old autistic boy was found dead in a retention pond near an apartment complex over the weekend.

Ethan Ortiz Ruiz, diagnosed with autism, was found lifeless in a retention pond near Crosby luxury apartments in Sanford.  Police responding to a call for the missing boy were greeted by the boys parents who reportedly had ‘bloodshot eyes’ and an apartment rich with the scent of marijuana.  

This was the third time young Ethan had been reported missing by the parents.  Both parents, Barbara Ruiz and Lester Ortiz, have been charged with homicide – negligent aggravated manslaughter of a child. 

Their initial appearance before a Seminole County judge is set for later this afternoon.