Local Elderly Man Found In Ditch Prompts Warning From Sheriff

Colder Temps, Wind Chills Bring Increased Risk For Elderly, Others In Need

Darren Doyle, story:
An elderly Edmonson County man with known symptoms of dementia was located lying in a ditch earlier today with no coat or shoes after he was reported missing this morning, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

Sheriff Shane Doyle said a family member of John Bratcher, (80) of Mount Zion Road reported Mr. Bratcher missing this morning around 9am. According to the sheriff, Bratcher went to bed last night but when a family member went to check on him this morning, he was gone from his home and the back door was open.

"Local emergency personnel began searching for Mr. Bratcher this morning and we were in the process of issuing a Golden Alert for a full-scale search when I saw something in the ditch," said Sheriff Shane Doyle.

Doyle said he found Mr. Bratcher shivering in the mud and immediately called for an ambulance where he was transported to the hospital. He was suffering from frostbite, hypothermia, and other injuries.

"With colder temperatures and life-threatening wind chills in the forecast, please pay close attention to your elderly family and friends, and anyone that may normally need any type of living assistance," said Doyle. "Keep in constant contact with them and please call us if you need help."

Doyle said colder temps bring a number of increased risks that include exposure, house fires, and other personal and property dangers. Pets, livestock, and other farm animals are also at higher risks.

"We want to encourage everyone to pay closer attention to these dangers so that a tragedy can be avoided."

Citizens are encouraged to call local dispatch at 270-597-2729 for assistance, or dial 911 for emergencies. 

"I'd like to thank our county rescue squad, Brownsville Police, and our local Emergency Management for their assistance in locating Mr. Bratcher," said Sheriff Doyle. "We are praying for a full recovery."