A press release from the Starke County Sheriff’s Office states that on March 23, 2026, at approximately 3:09 p.m., deputies from the Starke County Sheriff’s Office, along with officers from the North Judson Police Department, responded to the 10000 block of West 550 South in San Pierre regarding a report of missing juveniles.
Authorities were advised that two female juveniles, ages 8 and 9, had been playing outside and had wandered away from their residence. Deputies, detectives, and North Judson officers quickly arrived on scene and initiated a coordinated search of the surrounding area.
Deputy Shelby Pickens, a drone specialist with the Starke County Sheriff’s Office, also responded. Within minutes of deploying the department’s drone, Deputy Pickens successfully located the juveniles in a nearby wooded area. Responding officers were directed to their location, and both children were safely reunited with their parents.
Sheriff Jack Rosa commended the swift and coordinated response that led to the safe recovery of the children.
“I am truly pleased with our department’s rapid response,” said Sheriff Rosa. “Thanks to continued training and our investment in technology, such as our drone program, we were able to quickly locate these children. I am also grateful for our strong partnerships within the county, including the North Judson Police Department.”
No injuries were reported.
