In a bizarre incident that has captured widespread attention, a suspect in Huber Heights, Ohio, earned the nickname "Oscar the Grouch" after being discovered hiding in a trash can while evading police. The event unfolded on Monday, February 23, 2026, and was recorded on dashcam footage shared by the Huber Heights Police Department on their Facebook page.
Dashcam Footage Goes Viral
The video, which has amassed over 1.4 million views on Facebook alone, shows a sanitation worker performing his routine duties in a residential neighborhood. As he rolls a bin toward a garbage truck, he lifts the lid and is visibly startled, quickly backing away and frantically pointing to nearby officers. A man, later identified as Jonathan McMillan, is seen peeking out of the trash can before jumping out and fleeing the scene.
An officer, identified as Officer Perez, immediately gives chase, with both individuals disappearing from the camera's view. Police reported that the suspect had initially fled on foot following a traffic stop earlier that day. Officers had briefly lost sight of him and were conducting a search in the area when the sanitation worker's discovery led to the dramatic apprehension.
Police Response and Arrest
In a Facebook post, the Huber Heights Police Department humorously referred to the suspect as "Oscar the Grouch," noting his timely appearance. They praised Officer Perez for his "impressive athletic ability and swift response," which resulted in the suspect being safely taken into custody without any injuries.
Jonathan McMillan was arrested on an outstanding warrant from Miami County, along with additional charges of obstructing official business and resisting arrest. The incident highlights the unpredictable nature of police work and the role of community members, such as sanitation workers, in aiding law enforcement efforts.
The viral dashcam footage has sparked discussions online about the creativity of suspects in evading capture and the dedication of officers in ensuring public safety. This event serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges faced by both police and civilians in everyday situations.
