Emergency crews continued their search Thursday evening for a 16-year-old male who was last seen in the early morning hours near the East Falls Riverwalk in Elyria.
According to Elyria Police, the teen had spent the night near the river with 24-year-old Jacob Rosado. Police say the two were walking along the riverbank, drinking and talking, when the juvenile is believed to have entered or fallen into the water. Rosado told officers he also fell in while attempting to help but was able to reach the rocks and climb out. He reported that he could no longer see or hear the teen. The incident was called in at 7:58 a.m.
Authorities describe the area as hazardous, with steep terrain and water depths reaching 25 to 30 feet. Search efforts have included divers, sonar, submersible vehicles, drones, thermal imaging, and canine units. As of 6:00 p.m., the juvenile had not been located.
Rosado has been charged with tampering with evidence, a third-degree felony, and contributing to the unruliness of a minor, a first-degree misdemeanor. Elyria Police say additional charges may follow.
The investigation remains active, and search operations are ongoing.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.