MISSING PERSON UPDATE CHARLES RUSH

PUTNAM COUNTY, TN – At approximately 9:45 AM on February 9, 2026, PCSO K9 Unit located
missing person, Charles Rush. Mr. Rush was reported missing after walking away from his home in
Dekalb County at approximately 2:30 AM on February 9, 2026.
During the search, K9 Iris located Mr. Rush’s hat and slide marks leading down an embankment. PCSO
K9 unit and Aviation Unit were able to confirm Mr. Rush was at the bottom of the embankment. K9
Deputies made contact with Mr. Rush, who was alert and not complaining of any injuries. K9 Lt. Hull
stayed with Mr. Rush until PCSO Rescue arrived on scene.
This successful search was a joint effort involving the Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office, Putnam County
Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit and Aviation Unit, Dekalb County Rescue Squad, and Putnam County Rescue
Squad.
Sheriff Farris said, “This is a great example of teamwork between local agencies. Thanks to the quick
response and coordinated efforts of our K9 Handlers and Aviation Unit, Mr. Rush was located safely. I
will always prioritize interagency partnerships on a local and federal level, so we are all able to continue
to work together.”