ATHENS, Ohio (August 17, 2026) – The Athens City Police Department is continuing efforts to identify and locate an unknown female after an extensive overnight search near the Hocking River failed to find her.
According to a press release issued by the department on August 17, 2026, officers responded to the West State Street Ball Fields near the Hocking River at approximately 11:12 p.m. on August 16, 2026. The call involved a report of an unknown female who was reportedly in or near the river.
First responders launched an extensive search of the area using boats and drones. The operation lasted several hours and drew support from multiple law enforcement, fire, EMS, and public safety agencies. The female was not located.
Agencies that assisted included the Athens City Fire Department, Athens County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio University Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Waterloo Fire Department, Nelsonville Fire Department, Coolville Fire Department, Richland Area Fire Department, Ohio Division of Natural Resources, Athens Behavioral Health Center Officers, Athens County EMS, and York Township Fire Department.
“The Athens City Police Department appreciates the coordinated response and assistance provided by all of the agencies involved in the search,” the release stated. “The investigation and efforts to identify and locate the female remain ongoing.”
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is asked to contact the Athens City Police Department at 740-592-3313. No further information will be provided at this time, according to Chief Nick Magruder.
The West State Street Ball Fields area provides public access near the Hocking River in Athens. Officials have released no description, identity, or additional details about the woman.
This report is based solely on the official Athens City Police Department press release published on the City of Athens website. The investigation remains active.
Update: As of 08/18/2026 the following statement was released:
“FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 18, 2026
UPDATE: Female Located Safely Following Hocking River Incident
Following a day-long investigation into the report of an unknown female who entered the Hocking River near the West State Street Ball Fields on August 16, 2026, the Athens City Police Department has been able to speak with everyone involved and made contact the female that went into the river. The female was able to exit the river on her own and has been in contact with the Athens City Police Department.
The coordinated response and assistance from all agencies were instrumental in addressing the incident.
The Athens City Police Department considers the immediate search for the female concluded. An investigation continues and there is no other information that will be provided at this time.”
