Brandon Fazekas Rittman Ohio Obituary, Death: The City of Rittman and the Ohio law enforcement community are mourning the loss of Rittman Police Sgt. Scott Ries, who was killed in the line of duty during a tragic shooting on the evening of July 5 in Wayne County. The incident, which also claimed the lives of three civilians, left four additional officers injured and has shaken communities across northeast Ohio.
According to Wayne County Sheriff Thomas Ballinger, authorities were dispatched at approximately 9:30 p.m. to a residence on Chippewa Trail in Rittman after receiving reports of a disturbance and shots fired. Responding officers from multiple agencies encountered gunfire almost immediately upon their arrival, turning what began as a disturbance call into a deadly and complex active shooting scene.
During the exchange of gunfire, Sgt. Scott Ries suffered critical injuries. He was transported to Summa Akron City Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead, according to Gary Guenther, lead investigator with the Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Ries served as a police sergeant with the Rittman Police Department and was recognized as a dedicated public servant throughout his law enforcement career. He was a 10-year veteran of the department and had previously served as a deputy with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office as well as a police officer with the Sugar Grove Police Department in Fairfield County.
In a joint statement released by the City of Rittman and the Rittman Police Department, officials praised Ries for his unwavering commitment to protecting the community.
“He served with honor and courage,” the statement read, adding that he demonstrated an enduring commitment to protecting others and upholding the department’s values throughout his career.
“Our hearts are broken with this unimaginable loss.”
The shooting also left four deputies from the Medina County Sheriff’s Office wounded. According to authorities, two deputies were transported to a local hospital and were reported to be in stable condition, while two others received treatment at the scene for less severe injuries.
The violence extended beyond the responding officers. K9 Vick, a member of the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, was also struck by gunfire during the incident. The police dog was transported to Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital in Copley Township for emergency treatment. Officials have not released additional information regarding the dog’s condition.
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) has assumed responsibility for leading the investigation into the shooting. Investigators from BCI are working alongside the Rittman Police Department and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office as they collect evidence, process the crime scene, and interview witnesses.
Authorities have not yet released a detailed timeline explaining the sequence of events that unfolded after officers arrived at the residence. Detectives are expected to review forensic evidence, body camera footage, witness statements, and other investigative materials before providing a complete account of the incident.
The tragedy has prompted an overwhelming response from law enforcement agencies across Ohio, many of which have shared messages honoring Sgt. Ries and expressing support for his family, fellow officers, and the Rittman community.
Summa Health also extended condolences following Ries’ death.
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the individuals, families and the entire Rittman community affected by this tragedy,” said Maureen Nagg, spokesperson for Summa.
The loss of a police officer in the line of duty is deeply felt throughout the law enforcement profession. Officers often describe their colleagues as family, and Ries’ death has resonated with departments throughout the region. Community members have likewise expressed gratitude for his years of dedicated service and the sacrifices he made while protecting others.
Funeral arrangements and memorial service details are expected to be announced by Ries’ family and the Rittman Police Department in the coming days. Tributes continue to pour in from residents, fellow officers, and public officials, all recognizing a man remembered for his courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to public safety.
As the investigation continues, officials remain focused on supporting the injured officers, honoring Sgt. Ries’ legacy, and determining every detail surrounding the tragic events that unfolded on Chippewa Trail.