In a devastating turn of events, the body of Serenity Kinsey, a 7-year-old girl who was the subject of an AMBER Alert, was discovered in Douglas Lake on Thursday morning. The heartbreaking news was confirmed by Jefferson County Sheriff Jeff Coffey.

Kinsey was reported missing at approximately 5:15 a.m. on Thursday when her family realized she had left her home on Indian Creek Road during the night. Concerned for her safety, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation promptly issued an AMBER Alert, intensifying the search efforts.

Sheriff Coffey immediately initiated a ground search, employing the use of drones, Tennessee Highway Patrol helicopters, and assistance from the Knox County Sheriff's Office. Tragically, it was revealed that the young girl had previously wandered away from home on two occasions, but was swiftly located each time. However, this time she was nowhere to be found since approximately 1 a.m.

As part of the search efforts, one of the responding deputies utilized a K-9 partner, which led him to an area near a dock on Douglas Lake. Subsequently, the Sheriff's Office and Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency (TWRA) boats converged on the area, prompted by a suspicious signature detected on radar.

Divers, along with an underwater device provided by the TWRA, commenced a meticulous search of the water. Their efforts sadly culminated in the recovery of Kinsey's lifeless body. The body was then transported to the Knox County Regional Forensic Center for an autopsy, which will shed light on the circumstances surrounding her tragic demise.

"This is an incredibly heartbreaking situation, and we extend our deepest condolences to Serenity's family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this unimaginable time," expressed the officials. Additionally, they expressed gratitude to all the agencies involved in the response and assistance throughout this distressing incident.

This tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of children, particularly those with autism. May Serenity Kinsey's memory serve as a catalyst for increased awareness and proactive measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.