Georgia Sanitation Workers Save Missing Teen After Finding Her Hidden Inside Trash Bin Moments Before Compaction
GEORGIA — A routine garbage collection in DeKalb County turned into an extraordinary rescue when three sanitation workers discovered a missing teenage girl inside a trash bin, just moments before the contents would have been compacted. Officials say the workers’ awareness and immediate reaction prevented a potentially fatal outcome.
Workers Noticed Something Unusual During Their Route
County officials report that the sanitation crew was performing their regular pickup when they observed something unusual inside one of the bins. After checking, they realized a teenage girl who had been reported missing was inside.
Quick Response Prevents a Tragedy
The workers acted fast, stopping the truck before the trash could be compacted, a decision authorities credit with saving the girl’s life. Their ability to notice the danger and react quickly was described as “critical” to the rescue.
Teen Safely Rescued and Treated
The girl was safely removed from the trash container and treated by first responders at the scene. She was later reunited with her family. No additional details were released regarding how she ended up inside the bin.
County Officials Honor the Crew
DeKalb County leaders formally honored the three sanitation workers for their quick thinking, teamwork, and decisive action, presenting them with certificates and praising them as “everyday heroes” who turned a routine workday into a life-saving moment. For more breaking local and national updates, visit NapervilleLocal.com.

I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.