Missing teen found dead in pond as 'large group seen fleeing woodland'

27 February 2024 , 16:45

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Shannon "Chase" Sizemore disappeared into the woods last weekend to evade cops who were called to the area (Image: Lawrence County Sheriff's Office)

An Ohio teen who was reported missing two days ago has been found dead in a pond, say Lawrence County Sheriff's Office officials.

Sheriff Jeff Lawless confirmed the corpse was that of Shannon "Chase" Sizemore, 18, who was found in a pond shortly after 11 am. Law enforcement officials said they received a call around 1 a.m on Sunday, reporting a large gathering of teens illegally consuming alcohol in the ORV Recreation area off State Route 650.

Residents know the area as the Strip Mine. When responding officers arrived, the crowd dispersed and ducked into a wooded area to escape the officers, However, Shannon was never accounted for, hence the missing persons report—a search promptly ensued about an hour later. Deputies on scene questioned some of the partygoers about Shannon's whereabouts, to which they received mixed responses. Some attendees said they may have heard water splashing and there was a good chance it was Shannon going into the water to evade police.

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The search utilised multiple agencies from different counties (WCHS TV)

Others gave a complete opposite account, saying they doubt Shannon entered the water. Police subsequently conducted a search of the pond, the bank and the surrounding area, which they performed using an aerial drone, to no avail. Authorities widened their scope on Sunday, bringing several drones, fixed wing aircraft, K-9 units, boats with sonar and ATV to utilise during the search.

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The search for Shannon stretched into a second day once nightfall descended on the area. Lawrence County police were back at it early Monday morning with specially trained search parties from across the Tri-State.

While divers began their search in two ponds in the immediate area, drones, K-9 units and foot crews swept farther locations. At around 11 am, the divers, who were from the Cabell County Disaster Response Team, radioed Lawrence County authorities, telling them a body was found in the pond closest to the late-night gathering last weekend.

The corpse was reportedly fully clothed and lodged in a mud pit at the bottom of the pond (WCHS TV)

The corpse was reportedly fully clothed and lodged in a mud pit at the bottom of the pond. Shannon was about 11 feet down and 53 feet from the shoreline, according to the sheriff's department.

The water temperature was a frigid 44 degrees. Authorities transported Shannon's body to Montgomery County for an autopsy and are awaiting results. Lawrence County police said the preliminary investigation shows little sign that foul play was involved, but they have not ruled it out.

On Monday, the Rock Hill Local School District released the following statement, “It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I share the devastating news of the loss of one of our beloved students, Chase Sizemore. Our entire school community mourns the passing of Chase, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. Chase was a cherished member of our school community. His presence will be deeply missed by all who know him.”

Authorities have not released further details.

Mataeo Smith