SCIOTO COUNTY, Ohio — A Scioto County deputy was shot over the weekend while responding to a dispute in Portsmouth, Ohio. The incident occurred late Saturday, September 14, when deputies were dispatched to a residence on Liberty Avenue after receiving a 911 call regarding a threat involving a firearm.
Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman reported that deputies responded to 53 Liberty Ave. after the caller stated that a man had threatened his stepson with a gun. Upon arrival, Deputy Ben Vance attempted to make contact with the residents but was immediately shot by a male suspect. Vance quickly alerted dispatch that he had been shot.
Authorities initially believed the suspect had fled out the back of the house, and a drone was deployed to search the residence, with SWAT later clearing the property. However, the suspect was not located at the scene.
Sheriff Thoroughman revealed that the suspect, identified as 39-year-old Michael Bishop, had contacted someone to assist in his escape. Deputies set up surveillance at a nearby ballfield, where Bishop was eventually found hiding in a restroom. After negotiations, Bishop surrendered without further incident.
Bishop faces multiple charges, including attempted murder and felonious assault. Deputy Vance was flown to Ohio State Medical Center, where he was treated and released. Bishop is currently held in Scioto County Jail and is set to appear in court on Monday, September 16, 2024.
