A heartbreaking tragedy has struck the New Port Richey community in Pasco County, Florida. The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office confirmed on Friday that 6-year-old Cory Chester, who had been the subject of a Missing Child Alert issued Thursday night, was found deceased.
Cory was last seen near the 8000 block of Ross Lane in New Port Richey on Thursday evening. His disappearance prompted a massive search effort that included law enforcement officers, search and rescue teams, and concerned community members who gathered in hopes of locating the young boy safely.
Late Friday, hopes for a positive outcome were shattered when the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office announced the devastating news. “Pasco Sheriff’s Office is confirming that Chester was found deceased.
We send our sincerest condolences and prayers to Cory’s family and friends during this difficult time,” the statement read. Authorities also noted that the investigation remains ongoing and that no further information was available at the time of the announcement.
The loss of such a young life has sent waves of sorrow throughout the community, where many had closely followed the unfolding situation. Vigils and moments of silence have already been held across neighborhoods in New Port Richey, as residents mourn the loss of a child who, although only six years old, had made a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Cory is remembered by loved ones as a bright, curious, and energetic little boy. He loved the outdoors, playing with neighborhood friends, and was always quick to share a smile or a kind word. Described by teachers and neighbors as sweet, imaginative, and full of life, Cory’s absence will leave a painful void for all who knew him.
His family, devastated by the loss, has asked for privacy as they begin to process the unimaginable grief of losing their beloved son. Friends and relatives have set up memorials and support pages in Cory’s memory, many expressing their heartbreak and their love for the little boy who was taken far too soon.
“This is every parent’s worst nightmare,” one family friend said. “Cory was a joyful presence—always running, always laughing. His heart was pure, and he made friends wherever he went.”
Authorities have been tight-lipped about the circumstances surrounding Cory’s disappearance and death, as the investigation remains active. The Sheriff’s Office has promised transparency and updates as more information becomes available, but for now, the focus remains on supporting Cory’s family and thoroughly determining what led to this tragedy.
Local officials and school district representatives have offered grief counseling and emotional support for children and families impacted by Cory’s death. Teachers and staff from his elementary school have expressed their sadness and have prepared resources for students and classmates who will need help understanding and coping with such a loss.
Pasco County residents have also come together to honor Cory, organizing a candlelight vigil at a nearby park and placing stuffed animals, flowers, and handwritten notes near his home. Messages of sympathy and support have poured in from across Florida and beyond, showing just how deeply a single child’s life can touch the hearts of many.
As the investigation continues, Cory Chester’s memory will live on in the stories, laughter, and love he brought into the world during his short life. His passing serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of holding our loved ones close.
Authorities ask that anyone with information relevant to the investigation contact the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office. In the meantime, the community grieves, united in sorrow and love for a little boy gone too soon.
