Off Duty Akron cop shot - An off duty Ohio cop was shot and killed at a pub on Sunday after approaching an unruly patron who was carrying a firearm.
Akron Police reports indicate that the incident happened at Papa Don's Pub in Akron around 2am. Four other people were also shot.
Police Chief James Nice said the casualties are receiving treatment in the hospital for life threatening injuries. The identities of the victims have not been released. Nonetheless, officials say one of the victims was another off duty cop Akron shot. He is reported to have sustained minor injuries after being glazed by a bullet.
The off duty Akron officer shot and killed has been identified as Justin Winebrenner, 32.
The Summit County Medical Examiner's Office said after the fatal shooting Winebrenner was rushed to the hospital, but he died before arrival. The veteran cop, who once saved a man from a burning vehicle, is survived by a 4-year-old daughter.
After the shooting, the suspect is reported to have escaped on foot, but was later arrested after being tracked by a K9 unit. 35-year-old Kenan Ivery of Akron has reportedly been charged with one count of aggravated murder and five counts of felony assault.
According to reports, after his arrest, Ivery was taken to a hospital where he was treated for injuries he suffered during the incident where the off duty Akron cop was shot. Police officials have refused to comment on the nature or severity of the said injury.
Authorities say the off duty Akron cop shot - Winebrenner - was with friends in the pub after returning from an athletic organization's fundraiser. Ivery is said to have also attended the same fund raising event and arrived at the pub separately. The management of the pub reportedly ordered Ivery to leave moments after his arrival due to his unruly conduct. The suspect then returned with a firearm.
"At this point, the restaurant patrons looked to Officer Winebrenner, knowing he's an officer, and needed his help," Nice said. "Officer Winebrenner began to deal with Mr. Ivery as a law enforcement officer. Ivery shot him at that point."
Police say an investigation into the shooting is underway. Authorities are still looking to confirm how many bullets were fired when the off duty Akron police officer was shot.
The news about the off duty Akron cop shot and killed has attracted tons of condolences via social media to Winbebrenner's family and friends.
