GNADENHUTTEN, Ohio (AVC News) — Three people, including a 22-month-old boy, were found dead inside a Gnadenhutten home Wednesday morning after Tuscarawas County dispatchers received a 911 hang-up call, according to Sheriff Orvis L. Campbell.
At approximately 4:17 a.m. Oct. 21, the 911 Dispatch Center received a call that disconnected almost immediately without providing a location.
Dispatchers made several attempts to call back. During one callback, a voice could apparently be heard softly saying “help,” according to the sheriff’s office.
The phone’s owner told authorities the device was a spare phone he had loaned to an associate. Dispatchers and deputies attempted to trace the phone to multiple locations before determining it might be at a residence at 223 N. Cherry St. in Gnadenhutten.
A family member was located and unlocked the door, allowing authorities to enter the home, where they found three deceased people: a 67-year-old man, a 51-year-old woman and a 22-month-old boy.
All three appeared to have suffered gunshot wounds, and a firearm was found at the scene, Campbell said.
Tuscarawas County Coroner Dr. Jeff Cameron took custody of the bodies and ordered autopsies to determine the cause and manner of death.
Campbell said investigators have numerous people to interview and evidence to process as the investigation continues. He said he strongly believes the community is not in danger.
The sheriff’s office said additional information will be released once investigators have gathered and verified the necessary facts.
Last Updated on October 21, 2026 by AVC News
