LORAIN, OH — A community is in shock following a targeted ambush that left three Lorain police officers wounded and a heavily armed gunman dead. The incident unfolded Wednesday afternoon in the Colorado Avenue Industrial Park area, where the suspect opened fire on two officers as they sat in their patrol vehicles during a lunch break. A third officer who responded to assist was also shot.
During a press conference Wednesday evening, Lorain Acting Police Chief Michael Failing identified the wounded officers as Brent Payne, Peter Gale, and Phillip Wagner.
Officers Payne and Wagner, both critically injured with multiple gunshot wounds, were airlifted to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland for treatment. Officer Gale sustained a gunshot wound to the hand and was treated at Mercy Health – Lorain Hospital.
Chief Failing confirmed the ambush was carried out by a 28-year-old man, described as lying in wait with an “arsenal of weapons,” including a high-powered rifle. The gunman opened fire without warning on the unsuspecting officers. A swift response by fellow officers ensured the injured were transported to medical facilities without delay.
Elyria Police Chief James Welsh, whose department is leading the investigation, said that officers returned fire during the exchange. The suspect was found dead at the scene, though it is not yet clear whether he died from police gunfire or by suicide.
“This is a heartbreaking and difficult day for the Lorain Police Department and the broader law enforcement community,” said Chief Welsh. “We extend our prayers to the families of the injured officers and our deepest gratitude to all agencies who responded swiftly to this act of violence.”
Authorities have not released the suspect’s identity but confirmed he resided in Lorain. They believe he acted alone.
The Lorain County Sheriff’s Office conducted controlled detonations of suspicious materials found at the scene and posted a public advisory reassuring residents that there was no ongoing threat to the public.
As the investigation continues, the motive behind the attack remains unknown. Authorities are working to determine why the officers were in the area at the time and what may have led to this premeditated act of violence.
The Lorain community, law enforcement agencies, and residents throughout Ohio are rallying behind the injured officers and their families, expressing solidarity and gratitude for their service in the face of danger.
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