Lorain Community Rallies Support After Ambush Shoots 3 Officers

Three Lorain Police officers—Phillip Wagner, Peter Gale, and Brent Payne—were ambushed and shot in a deliberate attack while on duty, with two officers seriously injured and flown to a Cleveland hospital, and the third treated locally. The suspect used a high-powered rifle, and the investigation led by Elyria police remains ongoing, with uncertainty about the suspect's fate. The Lorain community has rallied strongly in support of the officers and their families through vigils, meal trains, and multiple fundraisers organized by local businesses, the Fraternal Order of Police, and other groups. The FOP/Ohio Labor Council emphasized the dangers faced by law enforcement and called for unity and solidarity in backing police officers amid rising violence. Officials have highlighted this incident as part of a troubling trend of attacks on law enforcement officers this year across Ohio. Community members continue to show outpouring support through donations, events, and public statements to aid the wounded officers and their families.