Children rescued after holding up sign in window: 'HELP US'

Children in Florida are being praised for their bravery after holding a "HELP US" sign up in a window during a domestic disturbance. 

The incident happened Oct. 26 in Kissimmee, Florida, according to police. 

What they're saying:

Kissimmee Police said family members called police about a domestic disturbance and said they feared for the safety of children who were inside the home. 

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Police flew a drone near the home and found the children hiding in a room, with one of the children "bravely" holding up a handwritten note in the window saying "HELP US." 

The children were able to escape while the suspect, Andrew Janard Smithson, was distracted by a SWAT team and a crisis negotiator. 

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Smithson eventually surrendered and was arrested on charges of false imprisonment and an outstanding active warrant.

"Excellent teamwork by KPD officers and specialized units in bringing this situation to a peaceful resolution," Kissimmee Police said on X. 

The Source: This report includes information from the Kissimmee Police Department.