Three Killed, Four Deputies Wounded in Rittman, Ohio Shooting
A Rittman, Ohio, police sergeant was killed and several law enforcement officers were wounded Sunday night after responding to a call of shots fired during a break-in that turned into a prolonged gun battle.
Wayne County Sheriff Tom Ballinger said officers were dispatched to a home on Chippewa Trail around 9:30 p.m. after reports of gunfire during a break-in. Ballinger said officers began taking fire immediately upon arriving at the scene.
The Officer Killed
Rittman police identified the officer killed as Sgt. Scott Ries, a 10-year veteran of the department. Ries had previously served as a Wayne County sheriff's deputy and as a police officer in Sugar Grove in Fairfield County. He was promoted to sergeant on Oct. 9, 2023.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine offered condolences following the shooting, saying Ries "dedicated his life to serving and protecting others" and made "the ultimate sacrifice while protecting his community."
Multiple Victims, Multiple Injuries
In addition to Ries, two other people were confirmed dead, along with the suspected gunman, who was found dead inside the home on Chippewa Trail. Fox 8 reported the two additional victims were a mother and her 13-year-old daughter. The suspect, a Wayne County man, is believed to have been the boyfriend or ex-boyfriend of the victim, according to the outlet.
Four deputies from the Medina County Sheriff's Office were struck by gunfire while responding to the scene. Two were transported to a hospital and remained in stable condition, while two others were treated at the scene. A Wayne County Sheriff's Office K-9, identified as Vick, was also shot during the incident and remained in serious condition, undergoing surgery.
Investigation Underway
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is leading the investigation into the shooting. The incident prompted a large law enforcement response and temporarily locked down part of the city Sunday night. At least six police vehicles, including units from Rittman, Wooster and Smithville police departments and the Wayne County Sheriff's Office, were towed from the scene, with some showing bullet holes.
Law enforcement agencies across Northeast Ohio have shared statements of condolence and support for the Rittman Police Department in the aftermath of the shooting. A candlelight vigil in Ries' honor was organized for community members at the Rittman police station.
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