This weekend, David Squad and Wingate patrol deputies were able to help a mother and her four children who were lost on the trails behind Jesse Helms Park.

What started as a Valentine’s Day family hike took a scary turn when it became dark, and they couldn’t find their way back out. Thankfully, the mom was able to call 911 so we could get deputies headed their way.

When deputies arrived, they tried using sirens and the air horn to guide the family closer to the park while additional units responded with a drone. When the sirens and air horn weren’t enough to lead them in, the drone was launched.

Within minutes, the drone operator was able to locate the family. From there, the operator guided deputies right to them and then helped lead everyone safely back to the park where their vehicle was waiting.

We’re thankful this situation had a safe ending and that we were able to help this family make it home safely.