Columbus Police Officer Released from Hospital After Linden Neighborhood Shooting
Columbus, Ohio – The Columbus police officer who was critically injured during a shooting in the Linden neighborhood last week has been released from the hospital and is now recovering at home. The incident, which unfolded on Wednesday evening, has drawn widespread attention as details about the suspect’s criminal history and the officer’s heroic response emerged.
The shooting occurred around 7:30 p.m. near the intersection of East 16th Avenue and Hamilton Avenue. According to police reports, officers initially attempted to conduct a traffic stop at 7:18 p.m., but the driver refused to pull over and fled the scene. Approximately 11 minutes later, officers located the unoccupied vehicle in the 1100 block of East 18th Avenue.
Shortly after, authorities identified a man believed to be the driver walking near Hamilton Avenue and East 16th Avenue. As officers approached him, the suspect allegedly brandished a firearm and opened fire, striking one officer. Multiple officers returned fire, hitting the suspect, later identified as Chantez Loury, 31.
Both the injured officer and Loury were rushed to Grant Medical Center. Tragically, Loury was pronounced dead a short time later. The officer, whose identity has not been released, suffered a gunshot wound to the femoral artery—a potentially life-threatening injury. Fellow officers quickly applied a tourniquet and transported him to the hospital, a move credited with saving his life.
Brian Steel, President of FOP Lodge #9, praised the swift actions of the responding officers: “Their quick thinking and immediate response were critical in ensuring the officer survived this horrific incident.”
Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant revealed that Loury had a lengthy criminal history, including charges related to drug trafficking, assault, and attempted murder. He had been released from prison in August 2023 and was serving a three-year supervised parole term at the time of the shooting.
“This individual had a history of violence and disregard for the law,” Bryant said during a press conference. “His actions on Wednesday night highlight the dangers our officers face every day.”
Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther also commended the officers for their bravery and professionalism. “What began as a routine traffic stop turned into a life-threatening situation,” Ginther said. “Our officers acted swiftly to protect their colleague and render aid to the suspect, despite the grave circumstances.”
The Linden neighborhood, where the incident occurred, has long been a focal point for law enforcement efforts in Columbus. Community leaders have expressed concern over the violence while reiterating their support for police efforts to maintain safety.
As the injured officer continues his recovery at home, the Columbus Police Department has vowed to conduct a thorough review of the incident. Meanwhile, the community has rallied around the officer, with social media flooded with messages of support and gratitude for his service.
The shooting serves as a stark reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily and the importance of community cooperation in reducing violence.
— Reported by Nexio News
