MARTINS FERRY, Ohio — Three people were arrested after allegedly breaking into the former East Ohio Regional Hospital, marking the latest in a series of trespassing incidents at the long-vacant facility.
According to Martins Ferry Police Chief Vince West, officers responded after a citizen reported seeing people inside the abandoned hospital. Martins Ferry officers, assisted by the Bridgeport Police Department, searched the building and located three individuals on the second floor.
Police said the suspects — two adult men and one juvenile female — attempted to flee but became trapped in a locked room with no exit. All three were taken into custody on breaking and entering charges.
Chief West said officers continue to find evidence that people have been entering and staying inside the hospital. During the investigation, police discovered someone had been living in a rooftop structure that houses air conditioning equipment. The door had reportedly been secured with wire to prevent others from entering.
Investigators also found signs that a king-size bed in the hospital’s former sleep study area had recently been used, along with graffiti covering portions of the building’s interior walls.
According to West, this is the fifth group of people arrested for unlawfully entering the former hospital. Previous trespassers have claimed they were exploring the building for paranormal activity, while others were allegedly attempting to steal copper and other materials. Police have also encountered individuals who appeared to be camping inside the property.
West noted that while some former patients or employees may have legitimate reasons to retrieve personal belongings left inside the building, entering the property remains dangerous because they could encounter individuals who are there illegally.
Police also reported that one of the suspects arrested during the latest incident was carrying a firearm.
Authorities continue to urge residents to stay out of the abandoned hospital and to report any suspicious activity around the property to law enforcement.
