RITTMAN, Ohio — A tragic incident in Rittman left a police sergeant, two civilians, and the suspected gunman dead while two additional police officers and a police K-9 were injured during the response.
According to information released by the Rittman Police Department and the City of Rittman, Sgt. Scott Ries was killed in the line of duty while responding to a disturbance call on the night of July 5, 2026.
The disturbance stemmed from a domestic incident involving a man identified as the ex-boyfriend of a woman at the residence. During the incident, the suspect allegedly killed the woman and her daughter.
As officers attempted to resolve the situation, gunfire erupted multiple times, resulting in the death of Sgt. Ries. Two additional police officers were injured during the incident, along with a police K-9. The extent of their injuries has not been released.
The suspect also died during the incident.
In total, the incident claimed four lives:
- Sgt. Scott Ries of the Rittman Police Department.
- An adult woman.
- Her daughter.
- The suspected gunman.
The Rittman Police Department described Sgt. Ries as a dedicated officer who served the department “with honor and courage,” noting that throughout his career he demonstrated “an enduring commitment to protecting others and upholding the values of our department.”
The department said the investigation remains active and is being conducted by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI).
On Monday, Rittman Mayor Rudy Arnold issued a proclamation ordering flags at all City of Rittman facilities to be flown at half-staff in honor of Sgt. Ries. The proclamation states the flags will remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of the sergeant’s interment.
The proclamation recognizes Sgt. Ries’ “ultimate sacrifice in the defense of his fellow residents” and calls upon the community to keep his family, the injured officers, and the entire community in their thoughts and prayers.
Additional information is expected to be released as investigators continue their work.
