‘Nightmare situation’: Officer shot trying to rescue hostage identified

ONTARIO, Ohio (WJW) — Police and state agents are investigating after an officer was shot responding to a domestic situation in Richland County.

Monday afternoon, Ontario police chief Tommy Hill offered an update on the investigation.

Hill identified the officer as Dylan Bailey, a six year veteran, and said he is currently in stable condition.

“This was an absolute nightmare situation,” Hill said during the press conference.

Police sources confirmed to the FOX 8 I-Team that an Ontario law enforcement officer was shot and injured Sunday, as well as a female victim. Both were taken to the hospital.

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The officer was shot and wounded while trying to rescue the female hostage.

The officer was responding to a 911 call shortly before 9 p.m. Sunday regarding a violation of a no contact order at a home on Landings Court, said officials.

When officers arrived, they were confronted by a 32-year-old man, identified as Jareth Vance. Officials report he was holding a female hostage at gunpoint. Officers tried to rescue the woman (who they believe to be his girlfriend), and that’s when the suspect fired at police, striking one of the officers.

After the shooting, the hostage escaped the suspect’s control.

“He (then) shot her as well,” wrote police in a media release. “(The suspect) then barricaded himself inside the residence where he held a 16-year-old hostage.”

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After a four-hour standoff, officials said, Vance surrendered to law enforcement. The 16-year-old hostage was unharmed.

Hill said the suspect’s vehicle has been seized.

Vance is currently at Richland County Jail and is so far charged with attempted aggravated murder. Hill said more charges are expected. Vance’s bond was set at $1 million Monday.

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