What started as a massive Wheelersburg house party ended with a drone search, a dozen terrified teens emerging from the woods, and no alcohol in sight — at least according to the Scioto County Sheriff’s Office.
“There’s Like 80 Kids Here!”
Just after 9 p.m., deputies were called to Besco Road after a neighbor reported what they believed was a party with underage drinking — and a crowd of about 80 people.
When officers arrived, the scene exploded into chaos.
- 👟 Dozens of kids took off running into the woods.
- 🚫 Deputies searched the area but found no drugs or alcohol left behind.
- 🔫 Someone tipped them off that one of the teens might have a gun — but no weapon was found.
“They’re Still Out There!”
Officers spoke with a few kids who stayed behind. They said the person rumored to have a gun wasn’t even at the party — but admitted that a bunch of others were still hiding in the woods, too scared to come out.
Deputies became concerned for the teens’ safety due to rain, darkness, and thick brush.
They contacted Porter Township Fire Department to assist — and requested a drone to help search the wooded area.
Drone in the Air, Kids Come Out
Before the drone even launched, about a dozen cold, muddy kids emerged from the woods and returned to the house.
Firefighters still launched the drone to make sure no one else was lost or hurt — and within 20 minutes, confirmed the area was clear.
With no alcohol, drugs, or violence confirmed, no charges were filed, and deputies cleared the scene.
The Bigger Picture
This is another example of how quickly a “just kids having fun” night can spiral into a dangerous situation.
- 🌧️ Teens hiding in the woods risk injury, hypothermia, or getting lost.
- 🚔 Running from police often creates more problems than it solves.
- 📱 Parents are encouraged to check in on gatherings and know who’s hosting.
👉 In the end, the biggest thing anyone was guilty of that night was bad judgment — and maybe muddy shoes.
