Editor’s Note: The Athens County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information about Jarrod Joe Taylor, 37, of Nelsonville, formerly of Lakeview, whose body was found in the Hocking River by a group of kayakers in early June.
Below is a media release posted Thursday on the Athens County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page concerning the investigation of Taylor’s death.
Release from Sheriff Rodney Smith
September 26, 2024
In early June 2024, the Athens County Sheriff’s Office released information regarding a body found in the Hocking River by a group of kayakers. Deputies and detectives quickly responded to the scene, with support from Athens County EMS, Richland Fire Department, and Rome Township Fire Department.
Following the discovery, an extensive search of the area was conducted but no additional evidence was recovered. No identification was located at the scene and no apparent cause of death was immediately evident.
“An autopsy was ordered by the Athens County Coroner in an attempt to determine the cause of death and to assist in identifying the deceased,” announced Sheriff Rodney Smith.
“Results ultimately revealed a DNA match in the state database, identifying the individual as Jarrod Joe Taylor, 37. We extend our condolences to his family.”
Upon notifying next of kin, it was discovered that Taylor had been estranged from his family since mid-2022 and was known to be homeless. The autopsy indicated no sign of foul play or foreign trauma. Taylor had a history of residence in both Athens County and the Lakeview area of Logan County, Ohio.
As the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the discovery continue, the Athens County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information from witnesses or acquaintances who may have seen Taylor in the area or had contact with him from early 2024 until the time his body was recovered in June. Those with relevant information are asked to contact the Athens County Sheriff’s Office at 740-593-6633.
Sheriff Smith would like commend Captain Bryan Cooper, Sergeant Brice Fick, Athens County Coroner Carl Ortman, Athens County Coroner’s Office Investigator Ben Ashcraft, and Deputies of the Athens County Sheriff’s Office for their diligent work in this case.
