Canton police are investigating a felonious assault reported Saturday afternoon at a business along Maple Avenue NE, where officers responded to reports of gunfire and a suspect fleeing the scene.
Police were dispatched to the area around 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, after receiving multiple calls reporting a shooting involving a victim and a suspect armed with a firearm. Dispatchers advised responding officers that the suspect had fled the scene through an alley before police arrived.
Officers arriving on scene worked to secure the area and prevent potential suspects or witnesses from leaving. According to a police report, several individuals attempted to leave the scene but were stopped by officers and detained for questioning. All were later released after providing information to investigators.
During the response, officers observed a vehicle attempting to leave the area at a high rate of speed. Police attempted to stop the vehicle, which initially refused to comply. The vehicle was eventually stopped nearby, and officers reported nearly being struck while making contact with the driver. Charges are pending against the driver related to obstructing official business and reckless operation, pending positive identification.
Police later returned to the business to conduct a safety sweep and investigation inside the building. Officers located blood inside the kitchen area, including a large pool of blood in a walkway. Police were told the suspect was taken to the ground by security personnel inside the business after allegedly drawing a firearm. An earring was also located near the blood and collected as evidence.
Police photographed the interior of the business, the parking lot, and surrounding areas, including Maple Avenue NE. Officers reported that a firearm allegedly taken from the suspect by security personnel was not photographed at the scene but was later secured and turned over to police for evidence processing.
Investigators also documented possible bullet damage near the front of the business, including what were described as fresh bullet holes. Additional holes that appeared older or previously patched were also observed. Police noted that confirmation of whether the damage is related to this incident will require further review.
No shell casings or firearms were found outside the building, in the parking lot, or in the street, according to the report.
Police also documented surveillance cameras inside the business and were advised that footage may be available. Investigators plan to review the video as part of the ongoing investigation.
After detectives arrived on scene and interviewed witnesses, officers cleared the scene and returned to headquarters. The investigation remains ongoing.
