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.
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