Two police officers from Mifflin Township were shot while pursuing a fleeing passenger during a traffic stop Wednesday evening on the Northeast Side of the Columbus, Ohio, area.
According to NBC4i, the 21-year-old suspect, Daveonte Dixon, escaped after opening fire and now faces a massive multi-agency manhunt across state lines as law enforcement officials describe him as armed and dangerous.
The incident occurred around 6:45 p.m. on May 28 near the intersection of Perdue Avenue and Mecca Road, in an unincorporated neighborhood just outside Columbus city limits. Officers from the small Mifflin Township Police Department had stopped a vehicle during a routine traffic enforcement operation. As the stop proceeded, Dixon, who was a passenger in the car, exited the vehicle and fled on foot.
According to Sheriff Dallas Baldwin of Franklin County, officers chased after Dixon on foot. During the pursuit, Dixon suddenly turned and began shooting, striking both pursuing officers. He then disappeared into the surrounding neighborhood, evading capture. The actions shocked this typically quiet area and launched an immediate emergency response from various law enforcement agencies across Central Ohio.
Manhunt Underway as Agencies Join Forces
Following the shooting, medical teams quickly transported both injured officers for treatment. One officer, whose name has not been released, was expected to return home from the hospital the following day, though their injuries were not disclosed in detail. The second officer required additional surgery and, as of Thursday, remained in recovery. The driver of the car involved in the stop cooperated fully with investigators. Authorities have publicly stated that the driver is not considered a suspect and has been released without charges. Investigators have not shared if the driver provided details on Dixon’s possible destination.
During a press conference held on May 29, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office released body camera footage from the responding officers. The footage provided the public with a timeline of the traffic stop and ensuing pursuit. Dixon, already on probation for previous convictions including burglary and obstruction of justice, is legally barred from possessing any firearm.
History of Prior Offenses and Legal Status
Law enforcement officials have confirmed that Dixon’s criminal history includes charges that make his possession of the recovered firearm a violation of federal and state law. Details about how he obtained the weapon used in the shooting have not been released publicly. Authorities have located the firearm involved in the incident, though there remains concern that Dixon could still access other guns.
Chief Deputy Rick Minerd emphasized the urgency of bringing Dixon into custody. During the Thursday briefing, Minerd stated, “There’s no rock that you’re going to hide under, Mr. Dixon.” He followed up that statement with a clear goal: “Let’s get this bum off the street.” The manhunt for Dixon has drawn assistance from state and federal agencies. Franklin County officials said that a national arrest warrant has been entered into a federal law enforcement database to ensure no jurisdictional gap hinders Dixon's capture.
Community Encouraged to Assist Authorities
Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant. Marshal Black, part of the team coordinating the manhunt, said authorities will not rest until Dixon is found. “Mainly, he poses a great threat to us and the citizens out here,” Black emphasized during Thursday's media update.
To engage the public, Central Ohio Crime Stoppers is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to Dixon’s arrest. Napoleon Bell, the organization’s president, pleaded for help from the surrounding neighborhoods. “We want the community to keep their eyes and ears open,” Bell urged. “If they see him anywhere… make sure they make that phone call.” Police have made it clear that anyone found helping Dixon to avoid arrest will be prosecuted. Officials highlighted that aiding a fugitive is a felony offense and warned that Dixon may attempt to rely on personal contacts for assistance.
Local Police Department Faces Impact
This incident has deeply impacted the small Mifflin Township Police Department, which only consists of five full-time officers. The loss of two active-duty officers, even temporarily, significantly reduces local police coverage for emergency calls, traffic issues, and public safety efforts. Residents in northeast Franklin County have been advised to stay alert and report anyone matching Dixon’s description, but officials did not specify whether recent sightings had been confirmed or not. The urgent tone from every level of law enforcement reflects concern about further violence should Dixon remain at large.
In the meantime, law enforcement continues to comb through local surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and follow up on tips submitted through Crime Stoppers. The $10,000 reward remains active and is aimed at encouraging more rapid community cooperation.
Ongoing Investigation and Call for Justice
The investigation remains ongoing, with numerous officers assigned to gather forensic evidence and compile witness accounts. The body camera footage made public at Thursday’s press conference captured critical moments but did not identify Dixon’s escape route.
Sheriff Baldwin stated that investigators are working to understand every aspect of the incident, from the origins of the traffic stop to the chase and shooting. Public updates will continue as new information emerges, according to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. For now, Dixon is still on the run, and the community stands on alert while law enforcement continues efforts to bring charges and secure justice for the injured Mifflin Township officers.
