PICKAWAY COUNTY, OH – A man on probation attempted to evade law enforcement Thursday afternoon by plunging into the icy waters of the Scioto River, leading to a dramatic two-hour rescue operation.
The incident unfolded around 4 p.m. when Eric Lee fled from the probation department near U.S. 23 and Connector Road, running westbound through a wooded area before entering the frigid river. Law enforcement quickly called for backup, with several first responder units—including life boats—rushing to the scene in an effort to save Parker from the dangerous waters.
Authorities located Parker around 6 p.m., stranded on a small island in the middle of the river, crying for help. First responders successfully retrieved him and transported him to Berger Hospital for evaluation before he was taken into custody at the Pickaway County Jail.
Following Thursday’s escape attempt, Lee now faces additional charges related to his flight from authorities.
