Suspect arrested and teenage girl found thanks to World of Warcraft

A remarkable event occurred when an Ohio teenager, missing for several days, was found in Florida. The girl was found mainly thanks to the digital trail she left behind while playing World of Warcraft, an online multiplayer game.

A missing 16-year-old girl was found with the help of World of Warcraft, police say.

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The 16-year-old girl was found in a small town about 25 miles south of Ocala, after an investigation lasting several days, thanks in particular to information about her virtual activities in the game World of Warcraft. This information played a crucial role in the investigation, as it enabled the FBI to locate the suspect’s residence.

By tracing a connection to her World of Warcraft account, authorities believed the teenager might be there.

Upon further investigation, authorities discovered that Thomas Ebersole, 31, had registered his own account in the game, at exactly the same address as the girl’s connection. When the police arrived at his home, Ebersole reportedly initially denied knowing where the teenager was, but eventually led the young woman to the front door.

The girl was visibly upset, but cooperative.

Ebersole reportedly admitted to maintaining a relationship with the minor via Discord, a popular instant messaging service used by online gamers. Some of his messages detailed his plans to marry and take the victim to his home.

Thomas Ebersole was arrested and held without bail.

His next court date has been set for February 6.