The Tuscarawas County Sheriff’s Office is releasing information following a 911 hang up call made shortly after 4am on Wednesday.
The call was almost immediately disconnected so a location was unknown. A release notes that upon several call backs, dispatchers, at one call appeared to hear a soft voice calling for help.
During attempts to trace the phone, the owner of the device noted it had been a spare which he loaned to an associate. Dispatchers and deputies eventually learned the device might be at 223 N. Cherry Street in the Village of Gnadenhutten. A family member was located and unlocked the door.
Upon entry, three people were found deceased. A 67-year-old male, 51-year-old female, and 22-month-old boy.
The Sheriff’s Office says they all appeared to have suffered from a gunshot wound. A gun was found at the scene. Autopsies will be performed.
Sheriff Orvis Campbell says while the investigation continues, he feels strongly that the community is in no danger.