Chief Eric Winbigler Butler Police Department released the following statement:
Joe Lyons •
April 11, 2023
Chief Eric Winbigler Butler Police Department released the following statement:
On 04/11/2023 at approximately 0600 hours, the Butler Police Department was dispatched to the area of 132 Cleveland St. in reference to a subject walking the sidewalk with a long gun and pointing it at vehicles traveling through the area.
When police arrived, the suspect was located, and he retreated into a residence. Responding Butler and Bellville officers were then met with gunfire. Additional units were then deployed from Richland County Sheriff’s Department, and the State Highway Patrol.
After some time, the suspect did emerge from the residence and was subsequently arrested. During the investigation, a search warrant was obtained and issued on the residence. In compliance with the search warrant multiple firearms, drugs, and drug paraphernalia was seized.
As the investigation continued, and with an abundance of caution Ashland County Bomb Squad was summoned to the scene to retrieve several items of question.
I want to thank all the responding officers for their assistance, and professionalism throughout this event. I also want to insure the public that their safety is of our primary concern and we appreciate the understanding as we navigated a delicate situation.
