Authorities in Ohio have identified both a deceased police officer and the suspect accused of killing him following an ambush shooting incident on Wednesday that also resulted in injuries to two additional officers.
The Elyria Police Department announced on Thursday that 28-year-old Michael Parker is the alleged perpetrator behind the “significant gunfire” faced by officers when they responded to a call in Lorain, Ohio, on Wednesday afternoon.
A call went out from an on-duty officer after the radio broadcast picked up gunshots in the area of River Bend Drive.
Upon arrival of additional Lorain officers at the scene, Parker reportedly “opened fire” on them with a “high-powered rifle,” stated Elyria Police Chief James Welsh.
Parker’s vehicle, which was parked near the dead end of River Bend Drive, allegedly had “multiple high-powered files, handguns, and a substantial quantity of loaded magazines” inside or near it when it was searched, Elyria police said.
Suspicious baggage was also located and concerns over possible explosive devices were raised, prompting a request for the Lorain County Bomb Squad.
The Lorain Police Department in Ohio lost one officer after an ambush on Wednesday. Two other officers were injured during a gunfire exchange between the suspect and law enforcement. (Google Maps)
“…bomb technicians discovered a significant quantity of improvised explosive materials within the vehicle. The materials were safely removed and disposed of through a controlled detonation away from the crime scene,” Elyria police said.
Wagner, a Marine veteran, served with Lorain police for three years and the Sheffield Village Police Department for four years, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page.
He is survived by his wife and two children.
