AKRON, OH – A driver who fled police and fired his gun at them during the pursuit was shot and killed by officers early Tuesday morning.
According to the Akron Police Department, at approximately 12:30 yesterday morning, pfficers attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation at Thayer Ave and E. Tallmadge Ave.
“The operator of the vehicle refused to stop; as a result, a vehicle pursuit was initiated. The suspect vehicle entered Route 8 southbound as the officers gave chase. During the pursuit, officers reported a firearm being discharged from the suspect vehicle,” police said. “The pursuit continued for several minutes until the suspect vehicle slowed down near the intersection of E. Wilbeth Rd. and Clairmont St. While the vehicle was still moving, the suspect fled from the vehicle on foot. Officers engaged the suspect in a foot pursuit in order to apprehend him. The suspect ran northbound into a nearby parking lot. Actions by the suspect caused the officers to perceive he posed a deadly threat to them. In response to this threat, officers discharged their firearms, striking the suspect.”
After the shooting, officers immediately summonsed for EMS to begin administering first aid until the arrival of paramedics. The suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene.