Joint statement regarding shots fired in the early morning hours of June 23, 2024

On June 23rd, 2024, at approximately 12:05 am. an officer with the East Canton Police Department initiated a traffic stop at the corner of Wood Street and Nassau Street. While conducting the stop, the officer heard several shots fired about 100 yards away on E. Nassau St. The officer then witnessed a motorcycle traveling north on Browning Ct. before turning west on Noble St. and north on Wood St.
The officer immediately initiated a pursuit of the suspect traveling north on Wood St. (State Route 44), Shortly after leaving the village limits, the suspect looked back at the pursuing police village cruiser and shot his firearm at the officer twice. followed by firing into the air once. Fortunately, the officer was not hit and continued the pursuit. After a brief period, the suspect slowed, attempted to pull into a gravel drive, and lost control of his motorcycle. The suspect got back on the motorcycle an headed south on State Route 44 back into the Village of East Canton.
By this time, officers from the City of Louisville and deputies from the Stark County Sheriff’s Department joined the pursuit. The suspect continued through the Village of East Canton before losing control of his motorcycle again on S Wood St. The suspect then fled on foot. A K9 Officer from the Village of Hartville arrived at the scene and assisted ln the search for the suspect. Shortly thereafter, the suspect was taken into custody without further incident.
Once apprehended, the suspect was identified as Edward Irwin III of Canton, Ohio. Mr. Irwin was charged with Attempted Felonious Assault on a Police Officer, Fleeing and Eluding and Felony Possession of Drugs. Further, he had numerous outstanding felony warrants. After being treated at the hospital, Mr. Irwin was booked Into Stark County Jail. The investigation is continuing, and more charges may be filed.
We want to thank the Stark County Sheriff’s Department as well as the Louisville and Hanville Police Departments for the support given. Further, we applaud the commitment and tenacity of our officer with the Village of East Canton Police Department, which ultimately led to the arrest.

Respectfully,

Mayor, David Spencer &

Police Chief, Thomas Hinerman