Two children were spotted in one of the most dangerous places they could be — walking along busy U.S. 23 near the Super 8 motel. Thankfully, a quick-thinking Scioto County Sheriff’s Deputy saw them and immediately called Portsmouth Police to step in.
Officers to the Rescue
Portsmouth Police quickly picked up the juveniles, who had run away from home. Instead of letting the situation spiral, officers:
- Took the kids safely to the station.
- Notified Children’s Protective Services (CPS) for follow-up.
- Waited with the children until their guardians arrived.
Thanks to fast action, what could have been a tragedy on one of Southern Ohio’s busiest highways ended with the kids safe and sound.
Why This Was So Dangerous
U.S. 23 isn’t just a back road — it’s a highway filled with fast-moving traffic, semis, and blind spots. Even adults face serious risks walking along it, let alone children. One wrong step or a distracted driver could have turned this into a devastating story.
What Parents Can Do to Prevent Runaways
Runaways happen for a lot of reasons — arguments, stress, or just a desire for independence. Here are some tips to reduce the risk:
- Keep Communication Open 🗣️ – Let kids know they can talk about problems without fear of being punished.
- Watch for Warning Signs 🚩 – Talk of “leaving,” packing belongings, or withdrawing from family activities can be red flags.
- Set Safe Boundaries 🏡 – Make sure kids know the dangers of running away and that it’s not a safe solution.
- Ask for Help 🤝 – If you’re struggling, reach out to school counselors, local youth services, or community groups before things escalate.