3 Lorain Officers Ambushed, 2 Critical; Suspect Killed

Overview of the Shooting Incident

On a Wednesday afternoon in Lorain, Ohio, three local police officers were victims of a targeted shooting. The incident occurred around 1 p.m. in the area of Missouri and Colorado Avenues. According to Acting Lorain Police Chief Michael Failing, two officers, Phillip Wagner and Brent Payne, sustained multiple gunshot wounds and were in critical condition. They were transported via medical helicopter to MetroHealth in Cleveland for treatment. A third officer, Peter Gale, was shot in the hand and taken to Mercy Hospital.

Details of the Attack

Chief Failing provided further details about the events leading up to the shooting. He stated that officers Wagner and Gale had just purchased a pizza and were parked side by side at a dead-end on Missouri Avenue. It is believed that the suspect was also parked nearby with an arsenal of weapons and was “lying in wait.” The suspect then opened fire using a high-powered rifle, wounding both officers. In response, the officers returned fire.

Brent Payne, the third officer involved, arrived at the scene after being called for assistance. While responding, he was shot several times while in his patrol car. Other officers who arrived on the scene helped transport the injured officers to the hospital.

Suspect’s Fate and Investigation

Elyria Police Chief Welsh confirmed that it is currently unknown whether the suspect died from gunfire or a self-inflicted wound. Welsh and Acting Lorain Police Chief Failing both indicated that there was only one suspect involved in the attack. Although the suspect's name has not been released, Welsh described him as a 28-year-old man. There were initial reports of a second suspect, but authorities conducted searches in the surrounding woods as a precaution.

The investigation is being handled by Elyria Police, with assistance from the Ohio Bureau of Investigations. The Cleveland FBI has also joined the effort to gather more information about the incident.

Community Response and Support

Lorain Mayor Jack Bradley expressed his deep support for the city's police department, calling them "the best police officers in the state of Ohio." The city of Lorain shut down its offices at 2:45 p.m. due to the ongoing situation. A statement from Lorain City Hall emphasized their support for the police department and all first responders involved.

Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel issued statements expressing their condolences and prayers for the wounded officers and their families. DeWine highlighted the risks faced by law enforcement daily, while Tressel condemned the violence and praised the service of those in uniform.

Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb and Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy Todd also voiced their support. Bibb called the ambush despicable and offered assistance from the Cleveland Division of Police. Chief Todd reiterated solidarity with the Lorain Police Department and acknowledged the challenges faced by law enforcement.

Closure and Ongoing Updates

In a show of support, the city of Lorain announced that all city offices would be closed on Thursday and Friday. This decision reflects the community's commitment to standing behind its law enforcement officers during this difficult time.

This story is still developing, and updates will continue to be provided as more information becomes available.