Ohio authorities are looking to Alaska to track down four members of a family connected to the execution of eight people in their state more than a year ago.
Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine and Pike County Sheriff Charles Reader on Monday asked for help from the public in the ongoing investigation into the execution-style killings of eight members of the Rhoden family in Pike County in April 2016.
Investigators are asking for information regarding George “Billy” Wagner, III, 46; his wife, Angela Wagner, 46; and sons George Wagner IV, 25; and Edward “Jake” Wagner, 24.
According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the Wagner family lived at a nearby farm that authorities searched last month. Jake Wagner is the former longtime boyfriend of Hanna Rhoden, 20, who was of one of eight people killed April 22, 2016. The two share a daughter, Sophia, who is now 3 and in the custody of her father.
The release did not name the Wagners as suspects in the slayings of the eight victims, who ranged in age from 16 to 44; they all were shot to death in four different trailers on family land. Three small children were found alive and physically unhurt.
In recent weeks, the Wagner family sold their farm and took a vacation to Alaska, the Enquirer reported.
Authorities said Monday they believe the family has now relocated to Alaska, but would not be more specific.
“Investigators are interested in receiving information regarding any interactions, conversations, dealings, or transactions that the public may have had with these individuals, which could be personal, business, or otherwise,” Monday’s release stated. “Specifically, information could include, but is not limited to, information regarding vehicles, firearms, and ammunition.”
Anyone with information can call the BCI tip line at 1-855-BCI-OHIO (224-6446) or the Pike County Sheriff’s Office at 740-947-2111. Any information provided will remain confidential, and a $10,000 reward is in effect.
Angela Wagner Angela Wagner
