After 40 years, Scioto County investigates tip in missing persons' cases

PORTSMOUTH, Ohio (WCMH) -- After more than 40 years, investigators in Scioto County may have received a break in three missing persons cases. 

On April 2, agents with the Southern Ohio Organized and Major Crimes Task Force responded to Pine Creek Road near South Webster to investigate a tip on the possible location of three people who have been reported missing from multiple counties. The most recent case is more than 40 years old.

According to the Scioto County Sheriff’s office, over a two-day period, investigators excavated a well in the area, finding what it said was “items of interest,” including a bullet. Ohio’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation will test the items for human remains. 

"Law enforcement never wants to have a case that is unsolved, so every time we receive information, we act upon that because we know how stressful it is and hurtful it is for families members to not be able to not know what happened to their loved ones,” Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman said. 

The sheriff’s office said the investigation into the area will continue.  

Thoroughman said he doesn’t want to specify which missing persons cases could be impacted, out of privacy and respect for the families. 

Anyone who may have information on the investigation is asked to contact the Organized and Major Crimes Task Force by calling (740) 716-8466. All information will be kept confidential and anonymous.