Man in ‘Scream’ costume arrested after armed incident in Canton Township

The Stark County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an incident involving an armed suspect wearing a “Scream” movie costume after deputies responded to a report early Tuesday morning.

At approximately 8:28 a.m., deputies were called to the 1400 block of Raff Rd. SW in Canton Township, where a man dressed in the iconic horror film costume was seen wielding a knife. Upon arriving at the scene, deputies located the suspect, later identified as 35-year-old Jacob Paul Weisgarber, who brandished the knife at officers.

Weisgarber fled on foot, prompting a short pursuit. Deputies attempted to deescalate the situation, but the suspect refused to comply with commands. He then ran onto U.S. Route 30, into active traffic. Deputies quickly halted traffic to prevent a potential collision.

After the suspect continued to resist orders, deputies deployed a Taser, successfully taking Weisgarber into custody without further incident. No injuries were reported.

Weisgarber has been charged with two counts of aggravated menacing (felony 5), one count of obstructing official business (misdemeanor 2), one count of inducing panic (misdemeanor 1), and one count of resisting arrest (felony 4). In addition, Weisgarber was booked on outstanding warrants for aggravated possession of drugs (felony 5) and attempted grand theft (felony 5).

The Stark County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the incident. Authorities are requesting that anyone with information contact the sheriff’s office at (330) 430-3800 or submit tips anonymously through the Crime Tip Line at (330) 451-3937.