CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — New information has been released about an overnight shooting in Chillicothe.
According to the police report provided by the police department, officers were dispatched to a residence on East 5th Street in response to a shooting around 11:30 p.m. Wednesday.
Upon their arrival, officers found two people. They informed the police that while riding their bikes on 7th Street, they “were shot at.”
One of the witnesses mentioned that she believed a black Pontiac Sunfire came up behind them on 7th Street. As the vehicle passed by, a white male allegedly yelled at her, followed by what they described as gunfire.
The second witness stated that he saw the male firing a larger-sized handgun from the vehicle. He continued to say that the round hit the roadway near him and that something then struck him in the face.
After the incident, the vehicle reportedly left the area.
The Chillicothe Police Department stated that a shell casing was found on the roadway within the 300 block of E. 7th St.
The casing was photographed and collected.
Officers mentioned that they spoke to a few neighbors in the area who were outside at that time. All of them said they heard a single shot but did not see the vehicle.
Shortly after the reported shooting, a BOLO (be-on-the-lookout) was issued by the Ross County Sheriff’s Office for the suspect’s vehicle.
Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact the Chillicothe Police Department.
This incident marks the latest of more than two dozen shootings reported in the city over the last 12 months. Citizens have taken to social media to organize a coalition aimed at addressing the escalating issue of gun violence in Chillicothe. A spokesperson for the community group “Operation Take Back Chillicothe” emphasized the need for action. They state, “We must address the rising violent crime rate in Chillicothe. Our leaders need to tackle not only the socioeconomic factors but also the influence of Columbus gangs within our community.”
Despite Chillicothe being voted Ohio’s Best Hometown in 2022, many community members feel that Ohio’s First Capital is falling short of living up to that title.