Newark Division of Police

10/11/2026

NEWARK, OHIO – On October 11, 2026, Newark Police were called to the area of Tony’s Bar, 392 W. Main Street, on a report of a shooting. Newark Police Officers and Licking County Sheriff’s Deputies arrived and located one person suffering from a gunshot wound just outside of the bar. The suspect had remained on scene and was taken into custody without incident. A fi***rm was located on the suspect’s person and secured it as evidence.
The victim was identified as a 25-year-old male from Zanesville, Ohio. He was transported to Mount Carmel East Hospital where he was reported to be in critical condition at that time. The suspect remained in police custody as of the time of this release. Newark Police Detectives are continuing to investigate the shooting and will provide more information after the Licking County Prosecutor’s Office review the case for charges on Monday, October 12, 2026.
Detectives are seeking information from anyone who witnessed the incident or has information related to the shooting. Anyone with information, photos or even video of the incident is asked to contact the Newark Police Detective Bureau at (740) 670-7215.

10/10/2026

Thank you Arlington Care Center for inviting Newark Police to have coffee with your residents!

10/10/2026

We are very sad to learn of retired Public Safety Officer Vaughn Richard’s passing. He served his nation and his community faithfully for many years. Our condolences to his friends and family

With heavy hearts, Hanover American Legion Post 764 & Family shares the passing of our fellow member, A. Vaughan Richards, who passed away on October 3, 2026, at age 79, surrounded by his family.

Vaughan proudly served our country in Vietnam from 1968–1969 and continued serving veterans and his community throughout his life. Through his work, his volunteer service, and his friendships, Vaughan touched many lives. We are grateful to have shared a place with him in our Legion family.

Celebration of Life
📅 Wednesday, October 21, 2026
📍 Eden Church of Christ
10052 Eden Church Road, St. Louisville, OH 43071

Fellowship with the family: 10–11 a.m.
Service: 11 a.m.

Burial will follow at Eden Church Cemetery, with military honors provided by the Licking County Veterans Alliance.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to Eden Church of Christ, the Ohio State Trappers Association, or the V.A.L.O.R. Clinic Foundation.

Please keep Vaughan’s wife, Linda, and the entire Richards family in your thoughts and prayers.

Rest easy, Vaughan. Thank you for your service and friendship. 🇺🇸

10/09/2026

Update: He has been found safe.

Please be on the lookout for a missing 12 year old boy. He left an address on Meadowbrook Drive about 40 minutes ago. His name is Marcus and he is wearing black sweats and a gray hoodie. He left on a lime green bicycle.

If spotted please call 740-670-7201.

08/28/2026

This slippery, slimy, social butterfly was located in the area of West Main Street and 34th Street. Please help us locate the owner.

08/24/2026

Welcome our newest officer here at the Newark Division of Police. Officer Jonathan Nightingale joins the Newark Division of Police with two years of law enforcement experience serving with agencies in Central Ohio. He is a graduate of the Columbus Police Training Academy, where he earned his Ohio Peace Officer Training Certification.

In addition to his law enforcement experience, Officer Nightingale has served as a part-time Firefighter/EMT with a Central Ohio department since 2021, further demonstrating his commitment to public service.

Having grown up in a law enforcement family, Officer Nightingale knew from a young age that he wanted to become a police officer. He is especially proud to have the opportunity to serve the community where he grew up and looks forward to beginning this next chapter of his career with the Newark Division of Police.

08/21/2026

🚧TRAFFIC ALERT — INTERSTATE 70 CLOSURE🚧

Our partners with Ohio Department of Transportation East Central Ohio District 5 have closed Interstate 70 in both directions at Exit 129 for State Route 79 due to flooding. (What a difference less than four hours makes!) Traffic is being detoured onto U.S. 40 through the Village of Hebron.

Motorists should expect significant increases in traffic and delays throughout the Village while the detour remains in place. If possible, consider an alternate route and allow extra time to reach your destination.

⚠️ Please use caution! With heavier-than-normal traffic, allow plenty of following distance, avoid distractions, and be patient with other motorists. A little extra space and attention can help prevent secondary crashes and keep traffic moving safely.

We will continue to provide updates as conditions change.

08/20/2026

⚠️ FLOOD SAFETY ALERT ⚠️

Significant flooding is expected overnight as existing groundwater continues to enter local river systems. Rivers in the area are predicted to rise above flood stage during the early morning hours.

Residents in low-lying or flood-prone areas—especially along Raccoon Creek and the Licking River—should take additional safety precautions now. Be prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen or if instructed by emergency officials.

Never drive or walk through floodwater. Turn around, don’t drown.

Please monitor local weather alerts and official updates from local safety services.