POINCIANA, Fla. -- The search for a 72-year-old Poinciana man who wandered away from his home a week ago turned into a recovery effort Monday.

  • Concepcion Rivera Labiera wandered from home a week ago
  • Loved ones of 'Camba' spread flyers all around the area
  • His body was found in woods not too far from home

Family and friends are still processing the death of Concepcion Rivera Labiera, or "Camba," as many called him.

Julissa Rodriguez, a family friend, said the search had been taking place between Osceola and Polk counties. 

"We were searching, we went into the woods, we knocked on every single door," Rodriguez said.

Those concerned for Camba posted flyers around town, including at gas stations and at the Association of Poinciana Villages. Camba suffered from Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and dementia, causing him to think he was still back home in Puerto Rico. His condition made the search harder.

Those who knew him well, like Jennifer Martinez, said Camba had a heart of gold and a great soul. 

"Even though he had dementia, he was very caring," Martinez said. "He was very affectionate to everyone regardless of whether he knew you or not."

Rodriguez said Camba's body was found in the woods not too far from home. 

The Polk County Sheriff's Office, which is mainly handling the case, asked surrounding law enforcement agencies to be on the lookout during this search.

How and why this happened will be hard to understand, but in the meantime, Rodriguez said they appreciate the community outpouring.

"We are grateful for everybody that reached out either by text message, through Facebook, through anything," Rodriguez said. "Those who came and knocked on our door and asked how can we help? I mean, we are very grateful for everybody. Like I said, this is not the outcome we wanted."

Concepcion Rivera Labiera, or Camba, had suffered from Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and dementia. (Handout flyer)
Concepcion Rivera Labiera, or Camba, had suffered from Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and dementia. (Handout flyer)