Crime
John Herbert Sawchak arrested and charged in connection to shooting his neighbor Davis Moturi in the neck
The shooting followed a series of escalating incidents involving harassment and threats.
A 54-year-old Minneapolis man, John Herbert Sawchak, was arrested early Monday morning after a standoff with police.
Sawchak is accused of shooting his neighbor, Davis Moturi, 34, in the neck on October 23rd.
The shooting followed a series of escalating incidents involving harassment and threats.
Despite multiple complaints from Moturi, police had been hesitant to take immediate action due to concerns about Sawchak’s mental health and the potential risks involved in an arrest.
The standoff between Sawchak and police lasted for five hours before he surrendered peacefully.
Police used a loudspeaker to urge him to surrender and threatened the use of gas if necessary.
Following his arrest, Sawchak was charged with attempted murder, first-degree assault, felony harassment, and stalking.
The charges were enhanced to reflect the racially motivated nature of the attack.
The incident has raised questions about the police department’s response to domestic disturbances and the challenges of addressing individuals with mental health issues.
While the police chief defended the department’s actions, the case has sparked public outrage and calls for increased accountability.
Crime
Ohio Shooting Leaves Suspect and 4-Year-Old Girl Dead, Officer Injured
During the exchange of gunfire, 4-year-old Rosalie Carey, who was inside a nearby business, was tragically struck by a stray bullet.
COLUMBIANA COUNTY, OH – A tragic shooting incident in Calcutta on Wednesday afternoon resulted in the deaths of a suspect and a 4-year-old girl, while a police officer remains hospitalized after undergoing surgery.
According to St. Clair Township Police Chief Brian McKenzie, officers responded around 2 p.m. to reports of a suicidal male walking down the street with a firearm.
Upon locating the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Joseph Como, officers attempted to make contact.
“Almost immediately, the man pulled a weapon and opened fire on my officers,” McKenzie stated. “Officers returned fire, striking the suspect.”
During the exchange of gunfire, 4-year-old Rosalie Carey, who was inside a nearby business, was tragically struck by a stray bullet.
She was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to her injuries later in the evening, authorities confirmed.
Como was also fatally wounded during the shootout and pronounced dead at the scene.
One St. Clair Township police officer Dakota Wetzel sustained gunshot wounds and was airlifted to a hospital in Pittsburgh, where he underwent emergency surgery.
Chief McKenzie reported that the officer is currently in stable condition and is receiving medical care.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with our injured officer and the family of the young girl whose life was tragically lost,” McKenzie said. “Right now, we are working diligently to gather all the facts and keep the community informed.”
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation has assumed responsibility for the case and is conducting a thorough review of the incident. Counselors have been made available to support the officers involved.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information regarding the incident to contact the St. Clair Township Police Department.