Chillicothe, Ohio – A family has been identified in the theft of an at-risk tortoise from Petland Chillicothe on Friday evening, July 17, 2026.
According to store officials, the group entered the North Bridge Street location just before 7 p.m. and went straight to the tortoise habitat. Video shows the younger male opening the enclosure after another customer left the area, removing the tortoise, and concealing it under his clothing before the family quickly exited.
The Chillicothe Police Department is investigating under report number PD-P2602873. Anyone with information can to contact CPD at 740-773-1191 or email CrimeTips@ChillicotheOH.gov.
Update: The store shared screenshots from mobile-captured video, which helped identify the individuals. Petland’s main concern is the safe return and well-being of the tortoise. Additional higher-resolution surveillance footage is available if needed. It remains unclear whether the animal has been recovered.
Petland Chillicothe is located at 881 N. Bridge St. and thanks the community for its support.
STORY UPDATE: Petland has stated that the tortoise had been returned.
