K9 Odin locates missing vulnerable adult who wandered from home in Yates

File photo by Tom Rivers: K9 handler and Orleans County Sheriff’s Deputy Jeff Cole and Odin were able to find a missing vulnerable adult early on Tuesday morning.

Press Release, Orleans County Sheriff Chris Bourke

YATES – In the early morning hours of January 13, deputies from the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a report of a missing vulnerable adult.

Deputies responded promptly, conducted a preliminary interview with the complainant, and performed an immediate search of the surrounding area and outbuildings.

As the search continued, additional resources were requested. K9 Odin from the Sheriff’s Office and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office Drone Unit responded to assist. Thanks to the outstanding teamwork and specialized training, K9 Odin successfully located the missing individual approximately ½ mile from the residence.

Medical aid was immediately provided by the Medina Fire Department, and the individual was safely cared for.

As a result of this incident, our office worked with the family to enroll them in Project Lifesaver to help prevent future emergencies.

Project Lifesaver is a public safety program designed to protect individuals who may wander due to conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, autism, or other cognitive impairments. Participants wear a small, personalized tracking transmitter, allowing trained responders to quickly locate them if they go missing—often within minutes—significantly reducing risk and response time.

We are proud of the professionalism, dedication, and teamwork displayed by all involved. The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to using all available resources to protect and serve our community.

Outstanding job to our deputies, K9 Odin, and our partnering agencies.