Wadsworth Police Mourn Rittman Officer Killed in Sunday Night Shooting

The Wadsworth Police Department is joining neighboring law enforcement agencies in mourning the loss of Rittman Police Sgt. Scott Ries, who was killed in the line of duty during a shooting Sunday night in Wayne County.

Authorities say Rittman officers were called just before 10 p.m. to a home at 90 Chippewa Trail after a 911 caller reported a break-in and shots fired. When officers arrived, they immediately came under gunfire.

Sgt. Ries was killed during the response. Police also found 44-year-old Christine McWilliams and her 13-year-old daughter, McKinley McWilliams, dead at the scene. The suspected shooter, 39-year-old Brandon Fazekas, was also pronounced dead.

Four members of the Medina-Wayne County SWAT Team were struck by gunfire. Two were treated at a hospital and released, while two others were treated at the scene. Wayne County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Vick was also shot and remains in serious condition.

Wadsworth safety officials said the department is heartbroken by the loss and is keeping Sgt. Ries’ family, friends, fellow officers and everyone affected by the tragedy in their thoughts and prayers. They are also wishing for the continued recovery of the injured officers and K-9.

Governor Mike DeWine has ordered U.S. and Ohio flags lowered to half-staff at public buildings and grounds throughout Wayne County in honor of Sgt. Ries’ life and service. The flags will remain lowered until sunset on the day of his funeral.

A local tribute is also taking shape in Rittman, where ribbons are being tied near the area where Sgt. Ries regularly parked while on duty. The memorial is intended to honor him, as well as Christine and McKinley McWilliams.

The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is handling the case, which remains active and ongoing.