Runaway teen found: Marietta teen missing for nearly two weeks found | News, Sports, Jobs

Riley Brandjes, a runaway teen from Marietta, was found in Parkersburg in late June. (Photo provided)

A 15-year-old Marietta boy who ran away in mid-June has been found.

“We are pleased to announce that Riley has been found safe and sound,” The Washington County Sheriff's Office said in a June 28 news release referring to Riley Brandjes.

According to Deputy Chief Mark Warden, Brandjes was found at a residence in West Virginia.

“Our investigation led us to Parkersburg,” The director said.

He said deputies worked with Parkersburg authorities to locate Brandjes.

Brandjes' runaway status was reported to the sheriff's office on June 15. Warden previously told the Times that it appeared Brandjes had snuck out of his Wilson Avenue home in the early morning hours.

On June 17, Warden told the Times that the sheriff's office had checked several locations for Brandjes and had inspected a residence where the boy had stayed for a short time, but he had already left when they arrived. Warden stressed that it was potentially a crime for someone to let Brandjes stay with them if they were not his legal guardian.

The sheriff's office posted on Facebook on June 24 that Brandjes was still missing and asked for the public's help in calling the sheriff's office with information.

” He is healthy “ The guard spoke about Brandjes.

He said he did not know if Brandjes was back home.

In a June 29 Facebook post, Thomas Prater, who claims to be Brandjes' father, said the boy is home.

“I just want to let everyone know that Riley is home and safe and we as a family truly appreciate all the love and care they are giving us.” the post says.

According to Warden, the investigation into Brandjes' escape and where he was found is ongoing.