MIFFLIN TOWNSHIP, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Wednesday evening, two Mifflin Township Police officers were shot during a traffic stop, leaving one officer in critical condition.
The shooting occurred around 6:45 p.m. at the intersection of Mecca Drive and Perdue Avenue.
The situation escalated when officers stopped a vehicle, and the passenger fled the scene. As the officers pursued the fleeing individual, he turned around and opened fire, hitting both officers. Emergency responders transported the injured officers to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The driver of the vehicle has been cooperating with investigators, while the passenger, identified as 21-year-old Daveonte Dixon, is currently at large. Authorities have filed serious charges against Dixon, including one count of attempted murder and two counts of felonious assault.
“Our primary focus is on the recovery of our injured officers and ensuring that the individual responsible is brought to justice,” stated Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin. “We urge anyone with information to come forward immediately.”
A cooperative effort involving local, state, and federal agencies is underway to locate the suspect. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement.
Both officers remain in stable condition.