Sgt. Scott Ries Killed Responding To Rittman Disturbance, Four Dead Including Suspect And Victims, Ohio Community Mourns Fallen Officer
Sgt. Scott Ries, a veteran officer with the Rittman Police Department in Ohio, was killed in the line of duty on July 5, 2026, while responding to a disturbance call on Chippewa Trail in Wayne County.
The incident, which unfolded around 9:30 p.m., left four people dead, including Ries, the suspected shooter, and two victims, and has shaken the small community of Rittman.
Authorities reported that officers were dispatched to the 90 block of Chippewa Trail after receiving reports of a disturbance. Upon arrival, the suspect opened fire immediately, triggering a deadly exchange of gunfire.
Ries was fatally wounded in the confrontation. The suspect, identified as 38‑year‑old Brandon Fazekas, was also killed, along with 43‑year‑old Christine McWilliams and her 13‑year‑old daughter McKinley.
Two other officers sustained injuries; two more were treated at the scene; and a Wayne County Sheriff’s Office K‑9 was critically injured. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is leading the inquiry into the shooting, carefully reviewing the circumstances to ensure all details are documented.
Ries, 54, had dedicated more than three decades to law enforcement. He began his career in 1995 with the Sugar Grove Police Department, later serving nearly two decades with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office from 1996 to 2015.
He joined the Rittman Police Department in 2015 and was promoted to sergeant in October 2023. His colleagues described him as a committed officer who always put the safety of his community first.
In 2008, Ries was recognized as Law Enforcement Officer of the Year while serving with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, a testament to his professionalism and dedication.
Beyond his career achievements, Ries was deeply involved in his community. He was known for volunteering at local cheerleading fundraisers with his daughters, often setting up a dunk tank to raise money.
Friends and neighbors remembered him as approachable, honest, and compassionate, someone who wanted residents to feel reassured that help would always come when they called.
The Rittman Police Department called his death an unimaginable loss, while Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson praised Ries’ courage and sacrifice, noting that he dedicated his life to serving and protecting others.
Governor Mike DeWine ordered flags in Wayne County and at state buildings to be lowered to half-staff until Ries’ funeral. Vigils have been held at the Rittman Police Station, and residents lined East Ohio Avenue for a solemn procession honoring the fallen officer.
The community response has been one of grief but also of solidarity, as residents gather to remember Ries’ service and the ultimate sacrifice he made.
Candlelight vigils and memorials have provided opportunities for people to share stories of his kindness and dedication, reinforcing the impact he had on those around him.
The investigation into the shooting continues, with authorities confirming that the suspect opened fire immediately upon officers’ arrival, escalating the situation into a deadly confrontation.
While foul play beyond the suspect’s actions is not suspected, officials are treating the case with the seriousness it deserves, ensuring that all possibilities are considered.
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is working closely with local agencies to piece together the events of that night. For the Ries family, colleagues, and community, the tragedy underscores the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day.
His death is a sobering reminder of the risks inherent in policing, particularly in volatile situations where officers must make split‑second decisions to protect lives.
As Rittman mourns, the focus remains on honoring Ries’ legacy of service and compassion. His career spanned decades, marked by dedication to public safety and community involvement.
His personal life reflected the same values, as he invested time and energy into supporting his daughters and participating in local events.
The loss of Sgt. Ries is not only a blow to the Rittman Police Department but also to the broader community that relied on his presence and commitment.
His memory will live on through the stories shared by those who knew him, the recognition of his professional achievements, and the continued respect for the sacrifice he made.
In the days ahead, as the investigation concludes and the community prepares for his funeral, residents will continue to honor his life, reflecting on the ultimate price he paid in service to others.
