October’s spike in gun violence in the Scioto Valley mirrors a growing wave of shootings in Ohio

CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — October marked an alarming spike in gun violence across the region, drawing the attention of the Brady Scioto Valley, the local chapter of the national gun violence prevention group. Tracking incidents through local news and social media, the group reports on numerous violent incidents in Chillicothe and surrounding counties.

In Ross County alone, there were two shootings in two weeks (October 5 and 12). Additionally, an armed home invasion occurred on October 14, and just two days later, a book bag filled with ammunition was found within walking distance of three local schools. An Oct. 26 domestic dispute escalated into a manhunt after the suspect, armed with an AR-15 rifle, fled.

Other counties also faced disturbing incidents this month. A homicide was reported in Scioto County on Oct. 16, while authorities responded to an armed robbery in Fayette County on Oct. 20. In neighboring Jackson County, there were two violent incidents: an armed robbery on Oct. 21 and a domestic dispute that turned into a homicide on Oct. 20 when a man fatally shot his wife before calling law enforcement.

Reflecting on these local incidents, Brady’s Scioto Valley report notes a troubling trend that echoes problems across the state. Ohio recorded 16 mass shootings by 2024, cities such as Dayton, Cleveland, and Columbus have experienced multiple tragedies with multiple victims. A particularly violent incident occurred in the Cleveland area on October 12, as a result of which one person was killed and four were injured. Other high-profile mass shootings have occurred in Akron, Columbus and Euclid, together contributing to an increase in gun violence across the state.

As gun violence continues in Ohio, Brady Scioto Valley emphasizes the importance of addressing these issues at the local level, reminding residents and policymakers of the urgent need for effective preventative measures to protect Ohio communities.

To learn more about the people of the Brady Scioto Valley, visit them Facebook page or go to bradyunited.org to learn more.