Benjamin Wheeler Obituary, Death – The Franklin County Coroner’s Office has identified the suspect killed during a SWAT standoff in west Columbus on Thursday night as 40-year-old Benjamin Wheeler. The coroner confirmed that Wheeler was pronounced dead at the scene on Cherryberry Drive by medics.
The incident began around 4:25 p.m. when police responded to a report of domestic violence. The situation quickly escalated into an hourslong standoff, though specific details about the standoff were not immediately disclosed.
During the standoff, multiple officers were stabbed, and at least one SWAT officer fired at Wheeler, resulting in his death. The injured officers were taken to Grant Medical Center; fortunately, their injuries were not life-threatening.
The circumstances leading up to the stabbings and shooting have not been fully revealed. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is handling the inquiry into the events.
Columbus Public Safety Director Kate Pishotti commented on the incident, highlighting the risks faced by officers daily. She expressed gratitude for the expected recovery of the injured officers and urged the community to support them and condemn violence against law enforcement.
