Missing Port Richey Toddler, Dad Found Following Manhunt: Sheriff

PASCO COUNTY, FL — A Port Richey man, who deputies said threatened to harm his young son and himself, is no longer missing.

According to the Pasco County Sheriff's Office, Noe Dominguez, 23, and his 2-year-old toddler were safely located in Hernando County. Deputies offered no further details.

Deputies said around 10 a.m. Thursday the Port Richey Police Department received a call regarding a domestic violence call in the Mercado Drive area.

During a news conference, Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco said Dominguez attacked an adult family member, left with his son and commented that "By the end of the day, I don't care if I'm dead or you're dead."

As Port Richey police arrived at the location of the attack, Nocco said Dominguez had already left and gone into the woods with his son.

A manhunt began for Dominguez's whereabouts, the sheriff's said.

During the search, which included K-9 and aircraft assistance, Nocco said officers became more concerned for the toddler's safety.

"Noe then contacted another family member and said that 'Anyone try to get him, it
will be the last day on earth for him and the baby,'" Nocco said.

According to the sheriff, Dominguez is no stranger to law enforcement. He has at least 11 prior felony arrests and 15 misdemeanors.

"You're dealing with a person who has a career list of committing crimes, being incarcerated, doing different sentences," Nocco said.