DELAWARE, Ohio – Authorities resumed search efforts Monday for as many as three men who remain missing after an emergency on the Scioto River near O’Shaughnessy Reservoir Park in Delaware County.
Police responded shortly before 9:15 p.m. Sunday following reports of a distressed young child near Riverside Drive. Two women were rescued from the water and transported to a hospital, where they were pronounced dead.
Delaware County Sheriff Jeffrey Balzer stated that the group had gone to the river to fish. One person entered the water to swim, prompting others to attempt a rescue, according to information gathered from children at the scene. A language barrier complicated initial communication.
The two children, believed to be related to those involved, are now in the care of Delaware County Jobs and Family Services.
Multiple agencies, including the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, fire departments, Columbus police, and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, assisted in the overnight search using boats, a helicopter, drones, and thermal imaging. Search operations were expected to resume between 9 and 10 a.m. Monday.
At this time, the identities of those involved have not been released. The incident remains under investigation.
This developing story highlights ongoing dangers along local waterways. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office.
