PORT CLINTON, Ohio — Law enforcement was engaged in an hours-long standoff in Port Clinton Thursday into Friday.
In a joint press release from the Port Clinton Police Department and the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office, they said at approximately 2:30 p.m., Port Clinton police received a call of a person acting erratic and possibly damaging vehicles in the area of the 200 block of Fulton Street.
Authorities approached the male, later identified as Kevin Witucki, 39, and he fled into his residence on Fulton Street where he barricaded himself. According to authorities, Witucki made multiple threats that he would kill anyone who approached his home, including law enforcement.
Port Clinton police said they established a perimeter around the residence and contacted Ottawa County Sheriff's Office SWAT team. Authorities said the SWAT team attempted to make contact with Witucki, but he allegedly continued to say he would kill any law enforcement who approached his home.
Authorities said it was reported to them that Witucki had been actively using drugs and or alcohol and was "highly intoxicated."
Law enforcement said over the next 11 hours, they attempted to get Witucki to exit the home to which authorities said he refused while still threatening to kill any law enforcement if they approached his home.
The Ottawa County Sheriff's Office said tear gas was put into the residence around 1:18 a.m. where Witucki had barricaded himself. After approximately 30 minutes, Witucki was said to have been found in the bathroom of his home and appeared to be unconscious.
The SWAT team entered the residence and removed Witucki. Authorities said he was provided medical care and was later transported to the hospital for additional care.
The Port Clinton Police Department will be handling the investigation. Witucki is charged with inducing panic, aggravated menacing, having firearms while intoxicated, obstructing official business and more.
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