A juvenile reported missing within Paden City was safely located early Saturday morning following a coordinated, multi-agency search that lasted several hours, according to local authorities.

The Paden City Police Department was notified by Tyler County 911 dispatch at approximately 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 20, of a runaway juvenile within city limits. Paden City Patrolman K.S. Cecil requested assistance from surrounding agencies as the search began.

Officers from the New Martinsville Police Department initiated an active search throughout the city, while deputies from the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office, including a K-9 tracking unit, responded to assist. As nighttime temperatures dropped and concerns grew about the juvenile’s prolonged exposure to the cold, additional resources were requested.

Search efforts continued throughout the evening and into the early morning hours. As a precautionary measure, CSX Transportation was notified and temporarily halted rail traffic in the area.

At approximately 1 a.m., authorities confirmed the juvenile had been safely located.

The Paden City Police Department expressed gratitude to the many agencies and individuals who assisted in the response, including the New Martinsville Police Department; Wetzel County, Tyler County, and Pleasants County sheriff’s offices; West Virginia State Police; St. Marys Police Department; Tyler County prosecutor’s offices; Wetzel County Magistrates; Tyler County Magistrates; Paden City Volunteer Fire Department; Sistersville Volunteer Fire Department; Tyler Search and Rescue; and local citizens.

Officials said the incident underscored the importance of interagency cooperation and community support, noting that the coordinated effort contributed to a safe resolution.