One Dead, One Injured in Mifflin Township House Fire
One Dead, One Injured in Mifflin Township House Fire
A devastating early morning house fire on Friday, May 30, in Mifflin Township, Columbus, Ohio, left one man dead and another injured. Firefighters responded around 7:00 a.m. to the 2600 block of Baughman Avenue following reports of thick smoke and visible flames.
According to Mifflin Township Fire Chief Brian Dunlevy, a man outside the residence informed emergency responders that his brother was still trapped inside. Fire crews quickly entered the structure and later found one man deceased. While the Franklin County Coroner has not officially identified the victim, officials believe he is the brother of the man who escaped.
The surviving man was treated on-site for smoke inhalation and declined hospital care. Firefighters managed to control and extinguish the blaze swiftly. Dunlevy noted that foul play is not suspected, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.
SWAT team arrests Daveonte Dixon, the suspect in the Mifflin Township police shooting, in southeast Columbus.
Daveonte Dixon, Suspect Shooter of Two Mifflin Township Officers, Arrested in Obetz
Columbus, Ohio — Daveonte Dixon, the suspect shooter involved in the Mifflin Township police shooting that injured two officers on Wednesday night, has been arrested, law enforcement confirmed on Friday evening.
The 21-year-old was located at an apartment complex near Thelma Drive and Bridlewood Boulevard in Obetz, just southeast of Columbus. A SWAT team entered the apartment and found Dixon with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was taken to a nearby hospital and remains in critical condition. Authorities confirmed that no officers discharged their weapons during the arrest.
A $40,000 reward was offered for information leading to his capture. Dixon faces one count of attempted murder and two counts of felonious assault.
The shooting occurred near Mecca Road and Purde Avenue, in northeast Columbus, during a traffic stop. According to Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin, Dixon, who was a passenger, fled the vehicle and opened fire on two Mifflin Township officers. The driver cooperated and was later released.
One officer has since been discharged from the hospital, while the second continues to recover after undergoing a second surgery.
Two additional Columbus police officers were injured in a car crash while responding to the “officer down” call. They were treated and released the same day.
This is the third high-profile incident involving Ohio law enforcement in May. Earlier in the week, Deputy Daniel Sherrer of Morrow County was shot and killed in a domestic incident. In a separate case earlier this month, Hamilton County Deputy Larry Henderson died after being struck by a car while directing traffic.
Law enforcement agencies across Franklin County continue to emphasize their commitment to justice and the safety of the Columbus community.
Hilliard’s First City Manager, Michelle Crandall, Announces Resignation After Over 5 Years of Service
Hilliard’s First City Manager, Michelle Crandall, Announces Resignation After Over 5 Years of Service
The City of Hilliard has announced that its first-ever city manager, Michelle Crandall, will be stepping down from her position after more than five years of dedicated service. Crandall’s final day in office will be July 25, 2025.
She has accepted a new executive leadership role as Chief Member Services Officer at the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), headquartered in Washington, D.C. Her departure marks a significant leadership transition for the city.
“This was a very tough decision,” Crandall shared in a press statement released May 27. “The opportunity to contribute to ICMA and give back to a profession that shaped my career is an honor I couldn’t pass up.”
Crandall took office in January 2020 after Hilliard residents voted in 2018 to adopt a new city governance model. Before her appointment, she served nearly three decades with the City of Dublin, including key roles as Deputy and Assistant City Manager.
“Hilliard is a vibrant community, and I’m proud of the achievements we’ve made together. We’ve built a workplace culture that values innovation, collaboration, and excellence in service delivery,” said Crandall.
As Hilliard looks to the future, city council members are now tasked with appointing the next city manager. According to the city charter, a two-thirds council majority must approve the selection, and an interim appointment can be made via resolution. No official timeline for the transition has been confirmed, according to city spokesperson David Ball.
The new city manager will be responsible for overseeing all municipal departments, managing personnel, developing city budgets, and collaborating with the city council on administrative priorities.
Stay tuned for updates as Hilliard begins its search for new leadership.
One Mifflin Township Officer discharged from hospital After Columbus Shooting
One Mifflin Township Officer discharged from Hospital After Columbus Shooting
Columbus, Ohio – One of the two Mifflin Township police officers injured during a traffic stop shooting in northeast Columbus has been released from Grant Medical Center, according to Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #9 President Brian Steel.
The shooting occurred Wednesday evening near Mecca Road and Perdue Avenue, when Mifflin Township officers conducted a routine traffic stop. During the encounter, 21-year-old Daveonte Dixon, the passenger in the vehicle, fled on foot. Authorities say that approximately four minutes later, Dixon turned and fired at both officers in what Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin described as an “unprovoked attack.”
Officer Recovery and Investigation
Both officers sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to Grant Medical Center. While one officer was listed in stable condition and discharged the following day, the second officer remains in critical condition in the intensive care unit following emergency surgery.
As of now, Dixon remains at large. He is wanted for attempted murder and felonious assault in connection to the shooting. Law enforcement agencies across Central Ohio are actively pursuing leads.
$10,000 Reward Offered
The Fraternal Order of Police and Central Ohio Crime Stoppers have issued a $10,000 cash reward for information leading to Dixon’s arrest. Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward immediately.
If you have tips or know Dixon’s whereabouts, please contact the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office at (614) 525-3350.
Law enforcement at the scene near Mecca Road after two Mifflin Township officers were shot
Two Mifflin Township Police Officers Shot During Traffic Stop in Columbus
Columbus, Ohio — Two Mifflin Township police officers were shot during a routine traffic stop near Mecca Road and Perdue Avenue in Columbus on Wednesday evening, according to Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin.
The traffic stop occurred around 6:45 PM. Within minutes of initiating contact with the vehicle’s driver, a passenger fled the scene on foot. While being pursued by officers, the passenger unexpectedly turned and opened fire, striking both officers. Sheriff Baldwin described the shooting as “unprovoked.”
Both officers were transported to Grant Medical Center. One officer, initially listed in critical condition, has been stabilized. The second officer remains in stable condition as well, according to Brian Steel of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #9.
The armed suspect, a man believed to be around 30 years old wearing a gray shirt and camouflage pants, is currently on the run. Authorities warn he is considered armed and dangerous.
Several law enforcement agencies, including Columbus Police, Gahanna Police, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and the Mifflin Township Fire Department, responded to the incident. A police helicopter was deployed to assist in the manhunt.
Columbus Police initially detained the driver, who cooperated with investigators and has since been released.
In a separate but related incident, two Columbus officers were involved in a traffic accident at Weber Road and Cleveland Avenue while responding to the emergency. Both are in stable condition.
The search for the suspect continues, and authorities are urging residents to stay alert and report any sightings.
Teamsters Local 284 members protest outside Sutphen Corp’s Columbus-area firetruck plant.
Union Workers Strike at Columbus Firetruck Manufacturer Sutphen Corp
Columbus, Ohio – The union workers strike at Columbus firetruck manufacturer Sutphen Corp is making headlines as more than 85 employees represented by Teamsters Local 284 walk off the job, citing the company’s refusal to negotiate a new labor contract.
The strike, officially announced on May 28, 2025, follows months of stalled negotiations and marks a significant disruption in the operations of Sutphen Corp, which supplies the majority of Columbus’ firefighting vehicles.
City officials, including the Columbus City Council, have expressed serious concerns. In mid-May, Council debated whether to move forward with a $2.5 million ladder truck purchase from Sutphen. Ultimately, the council passed the contract — but only with provisions that protect the city in the event of strike-related delays.
Councilmember Emmanuel Remy, chair of the Public Safety Committee, stated that the approved contract includes a liquidated damages clause and conditions to cancel the order if Sutphen fails to deliver due to the strike. Additionally, any use of nonunion replacement workers (scabs) could be considered a breach of contract.
A spokesperson from the mayor’s office confirmed that the city is currently under a $5.5 million contract for five pumper trucks ordered last year. The ladder truck deal is still in negotiation.
The union claims Sutphen has refused to meet until June 23, despite workers going without a contract since October 12, 2024. According to union leadership, workers haven’t received a wage increase since October 2023, and the company has had seven unfair labor practice charges filed against it since last August.
Mark Vandak, president of Teamsters Local 284, accused the company of arrogance:
“Sutphen arrogantly claimed they were too busy to meet. This is unacceptable behavior from a company that profits off taxpayer-funded contracts.”
In April 2025, the company reached a settlement with the National Labor Relations Board, agreeing to stop anti-union practices. Yet tensions remain high.
Union steward Jerry Becker commented:
“My co-workers and I are fed up with Sutphen’s refusal to bargain in good faith. No one is above the law.”
Sutphen responded in a written statement saying they are committed to “good faith negotiations”and have multiple future meeting dates scheduled.
With Columbus firefighters raising concerns about aging equipment and supply delays, the union workers strike at Columbus firetruck manufacturer Sutphen Corp may have far-reaching effects on both public safety and labor policy in Ohio.
Authorities investigate the scene of a deadly officer-involved shooting in Marengo, Ohio.
Morrow County Deputy Killed While Responding to Domestic Call in Marengo, Ohio
A devastating incident occurred Monday evening in Morrow County when a sheriff’s deputy was fatally shot while responding to a domestic disturbance. According to Sheriff John Hinton, the call came from the 100 block of County Road 26 in Marengo. Upon arrival, a confrontation ensued, and gunfire was exchanged.
The deputy sustained critical injuries and was rushed to the hospital, where he tragically passed away. The suspect in the case was also injured and is currently hospitalized in serious condition.
Authorities have not yet confirmed what triggered the altercation. The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), has launched an official investigation into the shooting.
Sheriff Hinton expressed his department’s deep sorrow, stating, “There are no words to express the pain being felt by our office today.”
Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office at 740-833-2830 or email [email protected].
DalmarTV Weather Alert: Central Ohio to experience heavy rainfall on Wednesday
Heavy Rainfall Forecast for Central Ohio on Wednesday
Columbus, Ohio – The DalmarTV Impact Weather Team has issued a Weather Impact Alert as a heavy rainfall forecast for Central Ohio on Wednesday may lead to travel delays and localized flooding. After a calm and sunny Memorial Day, weather conditions are expected to shift dramatically midweek.
Two waves of rain will affect the region—beginning Tuesday afternoon and continuing through Wednesday morning. The first wave will move in from the south during the day Tuesday, followed by a stronger system overnight, bringing steady to heavy rain just in time for the Wednesday morning commute.
Although the risk of thunderstorms is minimal, rain intensity and timing are the main concerns. Commuters are urged to plan ahead for potential delays, slick roads, and minor flooding in low-lying areas.
Key Weather Details:
Tuesday Afternoon–Evening: First round of rain arrives from the south.
Wednesday Morning: Wet roads may affect commute times.
Give yourself extra travel time.
Drive with caution in reduced visibility.
Ensure drains and sump pumps are in working order.
The DalmarTV Weather Team will continue to monitor the situation and provide timely updates. Stay tuned for real-time weather alerts and updates for Columbus and surrounding areas.
Memorial Day weekend marks the start of summer fun in Columbus, Ohio!
Stay Safe This Memorial Day: Essential Tips for Ohio Families
Memorial Day weekend marks the start of summer fun in Columbus, Ohio! Whether you are firing up the grill, heading out for a road trip, or soaking up the sunshine, make safety your top priority. Here are smart and simple Memorial Day safety tips to help keep your weekend worry-free.
Grilling & Fire Safety for the Holiday
Hosting a Memorial Day BBQ? Keep it safe by never leaving a lit grill or smoker unattended. Assign a dedicated adult to monitor flames and ensure children and pets stay away from hot surfaces. Inspect propane lines, clean off grease, and set up your grill away from buildings and trees. Have a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to shut off fuel in case of an emergency.
Picnic & Food Safety Tips
Avoid food poisoning by following these food safety rules:
Wash hands and utensils frequently.
Keep cold dishes in a cooler or on ice, and don’t leave them out for more than one hour.
Maintain hot foods at or above 140°F until served.
Cover all outdoor foods to keep bugs and germs away.
If you feel unwell after eating, stay hydrated and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Sun Protection Essentials
Planning outdoor activities? Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every 2 hours—especially after swimming or sweating. Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection. Stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Memorial Day Travel Tips
Expect high traffic across Ohio highways this Memorial Day. Stay safe by:
Checking your car’s tire pressure, oil, and fuel before leaving.
Packing emergency supplies like water, flashlight, and a first aid kit.
Planning your route in advance and checking local weather updates.
Never drinking and driving or riding with someone who has.
Always wear your seatbelt and drive attentively.
Final Thoughts
Memorial Day is a time to honor, celebrate, and connect. Share these Memorial Day safety tips with your loved ones and enjoy a safe, fun-filled weekend in Columbus and beyond!
Columbus Taco Fest attendees before Saturday’s early shutdown
Columbus Taco Fest Enforces New Safety Measures After Saturday’s Early Closure
Columbus, Ohio – The Columbus Taco Fest, a popular food and cultural event in the heart of Columbus, Ohio, was forced to close two hours early on Saturday evening after multiple fights broke out among attendees. The Columbus Division of Police instructed the crowd to disperse around 8 p.m., although the event was scheduled to continue until 10 p.m.
According to Hugo Albornoz, Executive Director of the Taco Fest, the decision to shut down early was made to protect the safety of guests, vendors, and staff. “The event closed today due to fighting, and we shut down for the safety of attendees,” said Albornoz.
In response to Saturday’s events, organizers are implementing updated safety protocols for the remainder of the festival:
Entry will be restricted to guests aged 21 and older.
Children 10 and under may attend if accompanied by immediate family members.
Increased security presence will be enforced throughout the venue.
This is not the first time Taco Fest has faced challenges due to public disturbances. In spring of the previous year, similar disruptions involving teenagers led to the introduction of age restrictions and heightened security.
“We had to close early around 8 p.m. to ensure everyone’s safety, including staff and vendors,” said co-organizer Sydney Kondas. “It was the right decision under the circumstances.”
Ticket holders from Saturday’s event will be able to reuse their passes for Sunday. The festival is set to resume as scheduled from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, offering live entertainment, delicious tacos, and local vendor experiences.
