07/07/2026
The Hartville Police K9 Unit are keeping the Rittman Police Department, K9 Vick and his handler, and all those involved in yesterday's tragedy in our prayers.
Update: Wayne County K-9 Vick Update Amid Rittman Shooting Tragedy
Wayne County Sheriff Tom Ballinger provided the latest on K-9 Officer Vick, who was seriously injured in Sunday night’s gunfire exchange in Rittman.
What happened:
Around 9:30 p.m. on July 5, 2026, Rittman police responded to a report of a break-in and shots fired at a home on Chippewa Trail (near North Metzger Avenue and Saurer Street). Officers were immediately met with gunfire upon arrival. 
Tragic toll:
Four people were killed:
• Rittman Police Sgt. Scott Ries (54, a 10-year veteran promoted to sergeant in 2023)
• Civilians Christine McWilliams (44) and her 13-year-old daughter McKinley McWilliams
• The suspect, identified as 39-year-old
Brandon Fazekas
Four Medina County Sheriff’s deputies were also struck by gunfire — two were hospitalized in stable condition, and two were treated and released at the scene. 
K-9 Vick’s condition (latest update):
Wayne County Sheriff’s K-9 Vick (a Belgian Malinois) was shot in the back hip. The bullet fragmented, with a piece lodged near his spine. He remains in serious condition at Metropolitan Veterinarian Hospital in Copley Township.
Veterinarians are focused on stabilizing him before considering surgery. More details are expected within the next 12–24 hours.
Sheriff Ballinger called Vick “a very valuable asset to our agency” and praised his loyalty: “Loyal, he’s extremely loyal, not just to his handler but very loyal to the department. It’s sad to see him going through this.” 
The Wayne County Sheriff’s K9 unit is funded separately. Donations (checks, cash, or money orders) can be made payable to the “Wayne County Sheriff’s
Office K9 Fund” and mailed to:
201 W. North Street, Wooster, Ohio, 44691.
Community response:
A procession for Sgt. Ries took place Monday afternoon, and a vigil was held outside the Rittman Police Department. Flags are flying at half-staff in his honor. Support is also being offered for the McWilliams family through Norwayne Schools.
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) is leading the ongoing investigation. This remains a developing story as authorities work to piece together the full sequence of events. 
Our thoughts remain with the families of those lost, the injured officers and their departments, and K-9 Vick as he fights to recover. These men and women put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe.
Stay tuned for further updates.
