MONROE TOWNSHIP, Ohio — A 17-year-old high school student was rushed to the hospital and intubated late Saturday night following a severe alcohol-related medical emergency following a homecoming gathering.
At approximately 11:51 p.m. on September 26, 2026, Pickaway County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the parking lot of Westfall High School following reports of an unresponsive, heavily intoxicated 17-year-old female.
While deputies were en route, dispatchers advised that the teenager’s father had arrived at the school lot and elected to transport his daughter directly to the hospital in a private vehicle alongside a nurse and another parent, rather than waiting on scene for responding paramedics.
A Sudden Medical Emergency
According to preliminary investigative reports, the teenager had been attending a homecoming party at a friend’s residence earlier in the evening.
The teen and two friends subsequently left the party in a vehicle, intending to head to a friend’s house for an overnight stay. En route, the friends realized the 17-year-old was in critical need of immediate medical attention, pulled into the Westfall High School parking lot, and contacted a parent, who then alerted the teen’s father.
While traveling to the hospital, a deputy encountered a red Kia Forte parked with its hazard lights on near the intersection of London Road and Hill Road. The driver, a 17-year-old male, and his passenger confirmed they had also been at the homecoming party and witnessed the events leading up to the teen’s departure.
The driver reported seeing the young woman leave the house, enter a truck, and return shortly after visibly upset before leaving with her friends. Deputies tested the driver for impairment, confirmed he was sober, notified his parents, and escorted the teens home.
Intubated and Transferred to Nationwide Children’s
Upon arriving at OhioHealth Berger Hospital, deputies learned the 17-year-old’s condition was severe. Medical staff had to intubate the teenager before arranging an emergency transfer to Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus for specialized care.
Sheriff’s deputies continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the gathering, including how the alcohol was obtained and provided to minors. At least five juveniles are reportedly involved in the party with more possible. 49 year old Anthony Paudicz was arrested and charged with six counts of furnishing liquor to a minor.
Court records indicate an adult associated with the case, identified as Paudicz, has entered a plea of not guilty.
