Crime & Safety

Solon Police Release Details On Fatal Shooting

The suspect was killed by Solon Police, but both officers involved are OK. State authorities are investigating.

Solon Police has released a detailed account of what happened on Sunnywood Drive Sunday night that led police officers to kill a man who fled from a traffic stop.

At about 9:45 p.m. on March 17, a police officer pulled over of Sylvania Township on Bainbridge Road.

According to police, Bailey tried to escape from police and turned down Sunnywood Drive, where his car went over the curb and became damaged.

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Two police officers pursued, but before they could exit their cruisers, they came under gunfire. The police returned fire, killing Bailey. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

One of the officers was struck by bullets in the chest and left arm, but he was wearing a bulletproof vest. Both officers were taken to the hospital, where they were treated and released.

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Both officers were placed on administrative leave while the investigation into the shooting proceeds.

"We are working very closely with BCI and the Medical Examiner,” said Chief Christopher P. Viland. "We expect a full and complete investigation and await what we feel will be positive results. We will also be in the process of providing appropriate counseling for all involved employees.

"This is one of those events that no one thinks will ever happen in the suburbs," Viland added. "It is what we train for but hope won’t come to pass.”

Solon Mayor Susan Drucker said she is glad the officers are safe. Both Drucker and Viland expressed condolences for Bailey's family.

"While a lost life is always tragic, and our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the party involved, I am at the least very happy that both of our officers were able to be released from the hospital home to their families this morning," Drucker said. "The welfare of all City employees is paramount to me, and I would like to publicly express my concern and support for the well-being of the officers."

Police immediately handed over control of the investigation to the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, common practice after an officer-involved shooting.

Solon Police say that after the investigation is completed, the results will be reviewed by the Department’s Use of Force Investigation team, the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office and the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office.  The process is expected to take several weeks.

When reached for comment, a spokeswoman for the Bureau of Criminal Investigation said they have nothing further to release at this time.


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