CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — On Saturday, May 4, officers were dispatched to a reported stabbing at 370 McKellar Street.
Upon arrival, officers first spoke with the caller, who had a visible puncture wound on his left forearm. The injured party informed the police that he was visiting a friend at the residence when John Book allegedly stabbed him during a physical altercation. Witnesses reported hearing the dispute but did not witness the stabbing incident.
Officers then spoke with John Book inside the residence. Book denied stabbing anyone and accused the victim of lying. He further alleged that the victim had broken into his house prior to the incident.
Another witness at the scene told officers that the alleged victim had come over and started arguing with Book. This witness claimed to have seen Book shove the victim across the room, initiating a fight. The witness alleged that they saw Book open a knife and either cut or stab the victim before fleeing into the house.
Officers noted in their report that they were unable to locate the knife due to the residence’s deplorable conditions. The witness who claimed to have seen the stabbing refused to provide a written statement.
John Book was subsequently arrested and charged with Felonious Assault. He was transported to the Ross County Jail.