CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Authorities are investigating a concerning discovery made on Church Street, located within walking distance of three Chillicothe schools. A local worker cleaning brush along a property line stumbled upon a suspicious book bag containing a handgun, ammunition, and other alarming items.
The worker, hired to clear vines and brush between two properties on Church Street, found the black book bag hidden in the undergrowth. Inside the bag was a semi-automatic pistol, a 33-round 9mm magazine, a box of 9mm and .380 ammunition, a large knife, and other miscellaneous items. Uncertain whether the gun was real, the worker immediately reported the discovery to the property owner, who then contacted the police.
Upon arrival, officers examined the bag, confirming the presence of the loaded weapon and ammunition. The bag, which appeared to have been in the brush for some time, was wet and had an unpleasant odor. Police were unable to identify the owner of the bag, and all items, including the firearm, were taken into evidence.
Given the proximity of the location to multiple schools, this discovery is raising concerns among residents and local authorities. Police continue to investigate the origins of the weapon and are urging anyone with information to come forward.