A section of Interstate 77 in Stark County that was closed on Sunday afternoon has reopened, according to the Jackson Township Police Department.

The closure was prompted by a law enforcement operation involving the U.S. Marshals Service.

Timeline of Events

• Start of Operation:
  Jackson Township Police Chief Mark Brink reported that the U.S. Marshals Service initiated a law enforcement operation in the 6800 block of Sunset Strip N.W. in Jackson Township around 11 a.m.
• Incident Location:
  The operation centered around the Roadway Inn, located at 6880 Sunset Strip Avenue. According to an employee at the motel, authorities appeared to be targeting a specific individual for arrest.
• Gunfire Reported:
  During the encounter, shots were fired, and part of the incident was captured on camera by a witness.
• SWAT Involvement:
  The Canton Regional SWAT team and Canton Police officers also responded to the scene in a SWAT capacity. Their presence ensured public safety and assisted in resolving the situation.
• Nearby Business Lockdown:
  The Cracker Barrel restaurant, located at 6940 Sunset Strip Avenue, was temporarily placed on lockdown during the operation. The restaurant has since reopened, and normal activities have resumed in the area.

Traffic and Public Safety

The temporary closure of I-77 caused significant traffic disruptions as law enforcement secured the scene. However, the highway was reopened later in the day after the situation was brought under control.

Investigation Ongoing

Details surrounding the law enforcement operation, including the identity of the individual involved and any arrests made, have not yet been disclosed. The incident remains under investigation by local and federal authorities.

Residents and businesses in the area have been advised that there is no ongoing threat to public safety.

This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.