Student safe after running away from a Columbia elementary school

A child is now safe after running away from a Columbia elementary school Thursday.

ABC 17 News got a news tip that the autistic child was on the playground of Derby Ridge Elementary School during school hours, under the supervision of a para-professional.

Reportedly, the child ran away from the school and was missing for about 40 minutes.

The child entered a nearby home and was escorted by the resident to the Early Childhood Discovery Center about a mile away from Derby Ridge Elementary.

ABC17 contacted the spokesperson for Columbia Public Schools, Michelle Baumstark.

Baumstark said there was an incident with a student earlier in the week.

Safety and security personnel and the district administration were notified, Baumstark said.

Baumstark said the police and parents were also contacted and that the employee involved received medical attention.

Baumstark did confirm the child had special needs.