Tragic Shooting in Rittman, Ohio Claims Four Lives, Including Police Officer

A tragic shooting in Rittman, Ohio, has resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including a veteran police officer. The suspect, Brandon Fazekas, reportedly died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The incident stemmed from a domestic dispute and left several law enforcement officers injured. This shocking event has prompted a significant investigation and raised concerns within the community. Read on for more details about the victims and the ongoing investigation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 7, 2026, 00:49 IST

Details of the Incident

Authorities have named 38-year-old Brandon Fazekas as the individual responsible for the shooting that occurred on July 5 in Rittman, Ohio, resulting in the deaths of four individuals, including a police officer, a woman, and her teenage daughter. Reports indicate that Fazekas succumbed to a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office reported that officers responded to a 911 call about a break-in and gunfire at a residence on Chippewa Trail around 9:30 PM. Upon arrival, officers were met with gunfire. Sheriff Thomas Ballinger stated that the incident was linked to a domestic dispute involving Fazekas and his ex-partner.

The deceased victims have been identified as Sgt. Scott Ries, 43, Christine McWilliam, and her 13-year-old daughter, McKinley McWilliams. Sgt. Ries, who had served for a decade with the Rittman Police Department, was taken to Summa Akron City Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. He had previously worked as a deputy with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office and as an officer in the Sugar Grove Police Department.

The city of Rittman honored Sgt. Ries, acknowledging his dedication and bravery in serving the community. Sheriff Ballinger, who had collaborated with Ries at the sheriff's office, praised him as "a good man" and "a great person." Authorities discovered Fazekas deceased in the home alongside Christine and McKinley, who were found to have died from gunshot wounds in what appeared to be homicides.

The shooting also resulted in injuries to four members of the Medina/Wayne County SWAT Team, who were struck by gunfire. Two officers were taken to Cleveland Clinic Akron General and are currently in stable condition, while the other two received treatment at the scene. Additionally, K-9 Vick from the Wayne County Sheriff's Office was shot and is in serious condition.

The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is overseeing the inquiry, with support from the Rittman Police Department and the sheriff's offices of Wayne and Medina. The incident triggered a significant law enforcement response and led to a temporary lockdown of part of the city.