A missing boy with autism was found unharmed and returned home in Florida.

The nine-year-old child had been reported missing for over two hours, prompting a search operation by the Volusia Sheriff's Office and the DeLand community on April 4.

Residents shared his photo, searched the area, and used boats on the water to locate him.

Eventually, a quick-thinking neighbour spotted the boy on the edge of Lake Talmadge with his backpack full of supplies.

Footage shows heroic officials rushing to the boy's location, where he was handed over by an elderly local.

Authorities thanked everyone involved in the search, saying that the teamwork between partners and residents made it a success.

The National Autism Association reports that wandering or elopement refers to the tendency of individuals to leave a safe environment, such as their home. This behaviour is observed in nearly half of children with autism and can result in tragic outcomes, including drownings and traffic accidents.