RITTMAN, Ohio — Authorities have released additional details about Brandon Fazekas, the 38-year-old Wayne County man identified as the suspected gunman in the deadly shooting that unfolded in Rittman on Sunday night, July 5, 2026. The violent incident claimed the lives of four people, including a veteran police officer, a mother, her teenage daughter, and Fazekas himself, while also leaving four sheriff’s deputies injured.
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) continues to oversee the investigation as officials work to piece together the events that led to one of the most devastating incidents in the community’s recent history.
According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, law enforcement officers were called to the 90 block of Chippewa Trail in Rittman at approximately 9:30 p.m. after receiving reports of a break-in and gunfire at a residence. When officers and deputies arrived, they immediately came under fire, prompting a large emergency response involving multiple law enforcement agencies, tactical teams, and medical personnel.
Investigators later identified Brandon Fazekas as the suspected shooter. The Wayne County Coroner’s Office reported that Fazekas died from a gunshot wound consistent with suicide, with preliminary findings indicating the injury appeared to be self-inflicted. Authorities have not reported that officers fired the fatal shot and have not yet released additional information regarding a possible motive.
Officials believe Fazekas had a relationship with one of the victims, Christine McWilliams, and investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding their connection. Authorities are reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working to determine whether any previous incidents or factors played a role in the tragedy.
The victims were identified as:
Sgt. Scott Ries, 54 — A Rittman Police officer who was fatally shot while responding to the scene. Colleagues and community leaders remembered Sgt. Ries for his years of dedicated service and commitment to protecting residents.
Christine McWilliams, 43 — A woman who was killed inside the residence.
McKinley McWilliams, 13 — Christine’s teenage daughter, whose death has deeply affected family members, friends, and the wider community.
Brandon Fazekas, 38 — Identified as the suspected gunman who died from what authorities described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Four Medina County Sheriff’s deputies were also injured during the response. Officials said two deputies were hospitalized in stable condition, while two others were treated for injuries that were considered less serious. A sheriff’s office K-9 named Vick was also wounded during the incident and remains under veterinary care.
The BCI investigation remains active as detectives continue processing forensic evidence, reviewing ballistic information, establishing a timeline, and examining communications and other investigative materials. Authorities have emphasized that additional details will be released only after they are confirmed.
The tragedy has left the Rittman community grieving the loss of Sgt. Ries, Christine McWilliams, and McKinley McWilliams. Residents, officials, and law enforcement agencies have shared condolences while honoring the bravery of the officers and deputies who responded to the dangerous situation.
Authorities have confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public. As the investigation continues, the community remains united in mourning and supporting the families affected by the heartbreaking events.
The victims will be remembered for the lives they lived, the people they loved, and the lasting impact they made on those around them.