VIDEO: Drone helps find 4-year-old boy lost in Sumner County woods

SUMNER COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) — Law enforcement in Sumner County used drone technology to help find a four-year-old boy who went missing Friday morning.

The Sumner County Sheriff’s Office said in a social media post that the four-year-old boy with autism wandered away from his siblings and mother as they were playing outside. Deputies added that a heavily wooded, rolling area is located behind the family’s home.

After learning that the boy was missing, deputies said they quickly coordinated a multi-agency response to find the four-year-old, which involved a canine handler, the White House Community Volunteer Fire Department, Sumner County EMA, Robertson County EMA and Sumner County EMS.

The rapid deployment of drone technology reportedly helped quickly locate the missing child. Deputies said he was found several hundred yards into the woods, playing near a creek.

In a statement, Sheriff Eric Craddock — who was the first to spot the boy — said he’s grateful that the child was brought back home safely.

“The collaboration and swift action between all the agencies involved made all the difference today,” said Craddock. “When a child goes missing, every second counts, and I’m so grateful we were able to bring this little one back safely to his family. EMS on the scene immediately assessed the boy, who was unharmed, before returning him to the care of his relieved parents.”

The sheriff’s office said it “extend its gratitude” to everyone who helped and responded to the search.