PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (CBS12) — The search for a missing man with autism has ended after police discovered his body in a canal on Friday.

The Port St. Lucie Police Department said that 32-year-old Alexander Joseph Solma was last seen near the 900 block of SW Aurelia Avenue.

Police said that the Solma family moved to Port St. Lucie from New York two years ago.

Family members told police that Solma left his residence in the past but typically returned within six to eight hours. Concern grew after his cellphone was found at the home, and the length of time he had been gone extended beyond what they considered normal.

The family told PSLPD they believed a missing person could not be reported until 72 hours had passed, based on their understanding from New York. Police clarified that this belief was incorrect, noting there is no mandatory waiting period to report a missing person in either New York or Florida.

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Officers said that Solma was 6’0″, 180 pounds, had blonde hair, and was last seen wearing a black shirt and blue shorts. Police noted that Solma was typically nonverbal to strangers, but was high-functioning. He was known to wander and often walked along the C-23 canal banks.

Tragically, PSLPD said officers found Solma’s body in the canal just before 11:00 a.m. on Friday at SW Belmont Circle. PSLPD said he was dead upon discovery.

“Our deepest condolences go out to the family of Alexander Solma during this incredibly difficult time,” said PSLPD Public Information Officer Brittany McNally. “We are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding his disappearance and subsequent death. We also urge community members to remember that there is no waiting period to report a missing person, especially when they are considered endangered.”

Police are still actively investigating the situation. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Mr. Solma between Wednesday evening and Friday morning is urged to contact the Port St. Lucie Police Department at 772-871-5000 or Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-800-273-8477.