Statement from Mayor Shaunna O’Connell
“After 6 painful days of searching, our prayers were answered by the Columbus Police Department. They found our daughter Riley O’Connell on the streets of the east side of Columbus at approximately 5:05pm Sunday night after she missing from the Evoke Wellness facility in Ohio where she had been receiving therapy in her long-term battle with mental health issues. Ted and I cannot begin to thank enough the Taunton and Hilliard Police Departments who were crucial in this search for Riley. We also want to thank City Councilors Kelly Dooner and Chris Coute along with Louis Picardi, David Littlefield, Kara O’Connell, and Terry Ruebusch, retired Army Master Sergeant, for traveling to Ohio to help in the search. We also want to recognize the Ohio media for their tremendous assistance. At home, there were so many people who helped spread the word online and made phone calls to help in the search. Ted and I are overwhelmed by the outpouring of support. We are eternally grateful.
Riley will be receiving medical treatment in Ohio for the upcoming days. Ted and I working on a plan to get her home safely and to continue receiving treatment.”
