Licking County, OH – Deputies are searching for a suspect after a shooting injured two people and prompted a multi-agency response Saturday morning.
According to the Licking County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched around 8:18 a.m. to the 10000 block of Purity Road for reports of gunfire. When emergency crews arrived, they found two victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
Authorities said a female victim had reportedly escaped a nearby residence following a domestic violence dispute and sought help before the shooting occurred. Both victims were transported to a local hospital and are expected to survive, officials said.
Initial reports indicated the suspect returned to a residence in the 11000 block of Harmon Road, leading to activation of the county’s SWAT team. Deputies later determined the suspect had fled the scene prior to their arrival.
Investigators have identified the suspect as James Walter Johnson, 36, who is alleged to have fled in a white 2012 GMC Terrain. The vehicle was later located in Mount Vernon with assistance from Mount Vernon Police and the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.
Johnson remains at large. Authorities warn he should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who sees him is urged not to approach and to call 911 immediately.
The investigation remains ongoing.
The incident may impact local commuters and residents traveling near Purity and Harmon roads during the active search.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook and support local independent news.
Have a tip? Message us.
