Columbus Fire Department Rescues Two, Locates Five Missing Individuals After Blacklick Creek Flooding
The Columbus Fire Department (CFD) conducted a large-scale water rescue operation along Gender Road in southeast Columbus following significant flooding of Blacklick Creek. The incident, described as a 'major medical emergency water rescue,' began after two homeless camps in the area were submerged by water reportedly 5 to 10 feet deep. Initial reports indicated five people and a dog were missing. During the rescue efforts, two individuals were saved from the floodwaters and transported to a hospital in stable condition, primarily due to exposure to cold water. Two Columbus police officers also required assistance after becoming stuck in the water. Over 100 firefighters, supported by a Columbus police helicopter and a CFD drone team, were involved in the search. Dive teams were not deployed due to the rapid movement of the water. All five previously reported missing individuals and the dog were later found safe, though not in the floodwaters, concluding the search as a 'best-case scenario.' 
