RAVENNA, Ohio — The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) is investigating a deadly Ravenna police shooting that happened on Tuesday morning.
According to a release from the Ravenna Police Department, the incident happened on Tuesday, Oct. 22, at around 11:45 a.m. on the Portage Hike and Bike Trail.
Police were responding to a report of a stabbing victim on the trail. As they were rendering aid to the victim, the alleged suspect in the stabbing approached officers while carrying an axe.
"The officers ordered the suspect to drop the axe and stop advancing. When the suspect failed to comply, officers discharged their weapons, fatally striking him," Ravenna police stated.
Officials confirmed that no officers were injured in the incident.
The suspect has been identified as 43-year-old Matthew James Fries. Police confirmed that both Fries and the stabbing victim were homeless and living in tents off the trail.
At this time, Ohio BCI agents are interviewing witnesses.
As of Tuesday afternoon, the Hike and Bike Trail through Ravenna is closed between Freedom Street and Loomis Parkway until further notice.
Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact the Ravenna Police Department at 330-296-6486.