Troopers and deputies search river banks near city limits for decomposing body

CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Troopers and deputies were in the area of Charleston Pike and route 23 and 35 Friday afternoon.

The law enforcement presence was part of a search for a decomposing body.

The Guardian was unable to confirm what led deputies to the area to believe a dead body would be found, but the odor of decomposition was strong in the wind.

Deputies called in the assistance of the Highway Patrol’s aviation unit after a foot search wielded no results. A helicopter was seen hovering ahead shortly after 7 p.m.

Earlier on Friday, cadaver dogs were brought to the banks of the Scioto River to try and locate the source of the odor.

A boat was also in the water with a search team.

Officials have not commented on who or what they may be searching for or what sent them to the area.