Butler County, Ohio – A Butler County Sheriff’s deputy was stabbed while responding to a vehicle fire call in Madison Township.
According to the Butler County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred at approximately 12:45 p.m. Thursday in the 7000 block of Myers Road. Deputy Mike Farthing was responding to a report of a vehicle fire when he arrived to find a vehicle fully engulfed in flames near a residence and nearby trees.
While assisting with traffic control for responding fire personnel, deputies said a male resident of the area allegedly approached Deputy Farthing from behind and stabbed him in the back. Deputy Farthing immediately called for assistance, prompting a multi-agency response to the scene.
Authorities said the suspect, identified as 41-year-old Phillip Brandon Lovely, was taken into custody without further incident. No additional injuries were reported.
Deputy Farthing was transported by ground to Atrium Hospital, where officials said he is alert and conscious. The Sheriff’s Office stated his injuries are stable and not considered life-threatening. Further updates on his condition are expected as information becomes available.
Sheriff Richard K. Jones said he visited the deputy at the hospital and expressed gratitude that the injuries were not more severe. In a statement, the sheriff noted that deputies routinely face dangerous situations while performing their duties and that the incident serves as a reminder of the risks law enforcement officers encounter daily.
The Sheriff’s Office did not release details regarding potential charges or a motive for the attack. The investigation remains ongoing.
Residents in the Myers Road area may have noticed a significant law enforcement presence during the response. Officials said there is no ongoing threat to the public related to the incident.
Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Butler County Sheriff’s Office.
