Early one July morning, 13-year-old D’veda Haag walked away near Watt Avenue and La Riviera Drive in Sacramento. Within a few hours, the Sheriff’s Office announced she had been found. For her family, the relief was huge. For many other parents of autistic children, the story landed with a familiar ache.
D’veda is nonverbal and has severe autism. She functions at a much younger level, which makes any time she leaves home especially risky. This was not the first time. Public records and community posts show similar alerts in 2023 when she was 11 and again in 2025 when she was 12. Each time she has been found safe, and each time the same fear returns for the people who love her.
The Quiet Fear Many Families Know
A lot of autistic children and teens wander. Sometimes they are drawn to water or open space. Sometimes the world simply becomes too loud or too bright, and they need to move. When a child cannot easily call for help or say where they are going, even a short absence can turn serious fast. Parents live with locked doors, tracking devices, and that constant low-level worry that never fully goes away.
D’veda’s repeated disappearances put a real face on something many autism families already understand. Neighbors who know her have joined searches before. The pattern is one that feels close to home for countless parents.
Helping Kids Stay Safer Over Time
Finding a missing child is only the beginning. The longer work is helping that child build skills that make the world a little safer: better ways to express needs, clearer awareness of boundaries, and tools to handle overwhelm. Progress looks different for every child, especially those with high support needs, but it is possible.
At Sacramento ABA, we meet families where they are. We believe every autistic child can grow in communication, safety awareness, and independence when the support is patient and tailored to them. Our focus is not on changing who a child is. It is on giving them practical tools so everyday life feels more manageable for them and for the people who love them most.
A Simple Invitation
If you have ever felt that same tight feeling in your chest when your child is out of sight, or if you simply want steady help building the skills that reduce risk, we are here. No pressure. Just a team that understands the daily reality of raising an autistic child and is ready to walk with you.
When you are ready, reach out to Sacramento ABA. We would be glad to talk about your child and what support might look like for your family.
