Story Update: Butler Police Chief Emphasizes Transparency in Ongoing Investigation
BUTLER — In a recent phone interview, Butler Police Chief Eric Winbigler addressed concerns surrounding the July 11 incident in which a fleeing suspect was struck by a vehicle during a police response. Winbigler emphasized that transparency remains the department’s top priority as the investigation continues.
Chief Windigler stated that no names will be released at this time, citing the presumption of innocence until the investigation is complete. “This is not about protecting anyone—it’s about protecting the integrity of the investigation,” he added.
He clarified that the Bellville Police Department is leading the investigation to avoid any conflict of interest, due to the involvement of a public official possibly connected to the Village of Butler.
“We’re not trying to hide anything,” Winbigler said. “This is about doing things the right way. Transparency between departments, the prosecutor’s office, and the public is key. We are making sure every ‘i’ is dotted and every ‘t’ is crossed.”
Winbigler confirmed all bodycam and area surveillance footage will be released once the investigation is finalized and forwarded to the Richland County Prosecutor’s Office.
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Questions Remain After Suspect Struck by Vehicle During Police Response in Butler
BELLVILLE, OH – An investigation is underway after a male suspect was struck by a vehicle during a police response in the Village of Butler Friday evening. But unanswered questions and the absence of key details in an official statement have raised community concern—particularly regarding the alleged involvement of Butler Mayor Wesley Dingus.
According to a press release issued by Bellville Police Chief Jon Fletcher, officers responded to a request for assistance from the Butler Police Department around 7:05 p.m. on July 11, 2025. The suspect in question reportedly had an outstanding warrant issued by the Ohio Adult Parole Authority.
Upon arrival, Bellville officers found that the suspect had been struck by a vehicle. One male was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Due to the nature of the individuals involved and the need for transparency, Chief Fletcher stated that Butler Police will not be conducting the investigation. Instead, the Bellville Police Department has taken over and is currently reviewing area camera footage as part of their investigation.
However, what the press release did not mention—and what is now at the center of public scrutiny—is the reported identity of the driver who struck the fleeing suspect. Multiple sources allege that Butler Mayor Wesley Dingus was behind the wheel of the vehicle that hit the individual.
When reached for comment, neither the Bellville Police Department nor the Butler Mayor’s Office provided confirmation or denial of that claim. Chief Fletcher stated only that “no further information is available at this time,” and added that once the investigation is complete, findings will be forwarded to the Richland County Prosecutor’s Office for review.
The condition of the suspect has not been further disclosed, and no names have been officially released.
Residents and community members are now calling for transparency and answers as the investigation unfolds.
