A multi-agency search for a missing DeKalb County man ended early Monday morning after a Putnam County Sheriff’s Office K9 located him at the bottom of an embankment.
The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office said the family of 82-year-old Charles Rush contacted deputies after Rush did not return home. Deputies also coordinated with the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office once the report was received.
Deputies reported that Rush left his home on Lafever Ridge Road on foot around 2:30 a.m. Monday. Family members told law enforcement that Rush never returned.
Because Rush reportedly has dementia, deputies began searching immediately. K9 units and a helicopter were requested to assist with the search effort.
At approximately 9:45 a.m., Putnam County K9 Iris located Rush’s hat. Deputies also found slide marks nearby on an embankment.
The Sheriff’s Office reported that the helicopter confirmed Rush’s location at the bottom of the embankment. Rescue personnel were then directed to the area.
A rescue squad assembled at the scene and successfully removed Rush from the embankment. The search concluded shortly after Rush was safely recovered.