Squirrel rescued after trapped inside stadium during game
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Police officer safely captures frightened critter with help from fans and a few pretzels during Ohio State's season opener.

Chris DeWeese
ByChris DeWeese
September 9, 2026Updated: September 9, 2026, 5:41 am EDTPublished: September 8, 2026, 10:53 am EDT
squirrel

(Perry Township Police Department)

A frightened squirrel was liberated from Ohio Stadium during Ohio State's season-opening football game against Ball State last weekend.

The Perry Township Police Department said the squirrel became stuck among the bleachers, overwhelmed by the noise and crowds of the sold-out stadium. Fans who spotted the anxious animal tried to help keep it calm by offering it pretzels while officers were called in to handle the rescue.

Body camera footage released by the department shows an officer carefully capturing the squirrel and placing it inside a cardboard box for a safe removal from the stadium. Once outside, the squirrel was released back into its natural habitat, seemingly no worse for wear after its unexpected detour into college football.

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The department shared the lighthearted moment on social media, praising the officer's quick response.

"No crime. No arrests. Just one scared squirrel, a few generous fans, and Sgt. Delbert answering the call," the department wrote. "Sometimes police work is serious. Sometimes it involves squirrels. Service Above Self — even when the suspect has four paws and a fluffy tail."

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