Columbus Police Officer Shot in Linden Neighborhood; Suspect with Violent History Killed in Exchange
By Nexio News | February 26, 2025
COLUMBUS, Ohio — A Columbus police officer is recovering after being shot during a confrontation with a parolee in the city’s Linden neighborhood Wednesday evening. The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Chantez Loury, was killed in the exchange of gunfire.
The incident unfolded around 7:30 p.m. near the intersection of East 16th Avenue and Hamilton Avenue. Officers initially attempted a traffic stop at 7:18 p.m., but the driver fled. Eleven minutes later, police found the abandoned vehicle in the 1100 block of East 18th Avenue.
Moments after locating Loury—believed to be the driver—on foot, the situation escalated.
“As officers exited their cruiser, the male displayed a firearm and fired, striking an officer,” Columbus Police stated. Multiple officers returned fire, hitting Loury. Both the wounded officer and the suspect were rushed to Grant Medical Center, where Loury was pronounced dead.
Officer’s Quick Rescue and Recovery
The injured officer underwent emergency surgery after being shot twice in the legs, with one bullet striking his femoral artery—a potentially fatal injury. Fellow officers acted swiftly, applying a tourniquet before transporting him directly to the hospital rather than waiting for an ambulance.
Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #9 President Brian Steel credited their quick response with saving the officer’s life. As of Friday, the officer is in stable condition.
“This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers our officers face every day,” said Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant. She asked the community to keep the injured officer and his colleagues in their thoughts.
Suspect’s Violent Past
Loury had an extensive criminal record, including charges for drug trafficking, assault, and attempted murder. He was released from prison in August 2024 on supervised parole after serving time for previous offenses.
Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther condemned the attack, calling it “completely unacceptable.”
“An attack on an officer is an attack on all of us,” Ginther said. “No one, regardless of their situation, should ever threaten or harm those who protect our city.”
Despite a recent decline in violent crime since a 2021 peak, Ginther warned that gun violence remains a persistent threat.
Community and Official Reactions
Officials praised the officers’ professionalism, noting that they rendered aid to Loury despite the circumstances. The mayor also expressed relief that no bystanders were injured.
The injured officer’s family is receiving support, and the department has vowed to assist in his recovery. An investigation into the shooting is ongoing.
— Reported by Nexio News
