By Laura French
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Ohio — A former firefighter was shot in both arms in Ohio over the weekend, prompting a warning from the Ohio Fire Chiefs Association and a sheriff’s office investigation.
The Ohio Fire Chiefs Association said in a message to its members that the former firefighter, who was not publicly identified, was driving in his personal vehicle adorned with firefighter plates and stickers when someone “yelled obscenities regarding police officers and firefighters” and shot into the vehicle, according to 10 WBNS. The victim was driving a convertible with its top down at the time of the shooting.
“Please be extra cautious, especially of vehicles following or pulling alongside you,” the association’s message concluded. “We want you all to stay safe!”
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the shooting, which officials say occurred at about 7:30 p.m. on Sunday.
The former firefighter told investigators the suspect’s dark-colored vehicle passed him but then slowed down beside his when the suspect shouted the comments about first responders before firing, according to a chief deputy. In a 911 call, the victim stated the suspect was driving a gray four-door vehicle and was a Black man.
Another person who called 911 said that the vehicle looked like a Honda SUV.
A witness who deputies say saw the shots being fired while driving behind the two other vehicles told investigators he tried to follow the suspect’s vehicle but that it sped away too quickly. It is unclear if this was the same witness who called 911.
Authorities said they believe one or two shots were fired and reported that both of the victim’s forearms were grazed. The victim was treated at the hospital and released.
The sheriff’s office asked anyone with information about the incident to contact its investigators.