The Rangely Police Department has released a statement regarding a disturbing TikTok video involving two adolescent boys. RPD says it has received calls from citizens and media. On August 12, 2024, the Communications Center received a call about two boys riding bikes on Colorado Highway 139 in Rio Blanco County toward Grand Junction.

The Rio Blanco County Sheriff’s Office sent a deputy to the scene. Around 4:05 p.m., RBCO requested an RPD officer to respond and assist. At the scene, the officer determined that the 8-year-old and 9-year-old boys belonged to a family in Rangely.

The boys alleged that they were leaving because their stepfather was mean and abused them. The boys were shirtless although wearing shorts and carrying t-shirts. RPD says there were no physical indications of abuse present.

Due to a lack of physical evidence, the children were taken back to their Rangely residence and released to their mother. A referral was made to the Rio Blanco County Department of Human Services. A criminal investigation was also initiated, according to RPD.