Driver Points Gun At Police During Traffic Stop, Manhunt Begins

MOUNT VERNON, OH — A man pointed a gun at a police officer on Thursday before driving away. Law enforcement is now asking the public for help finding the man.

On Thursday afternoon, a Frederickstown police officer stopped a red Pontiac Grand Am near Armentrout Road and Upper Fredericktown. The car had outdated registration, the Bureau of Criminal Investigations said.

As the officer walked toward the stopped car, the driver rolled down his window and aimed a gun at police.

The officer fired his own gun at the driver and the Pontiac sped away. Police chased the vehicle for a short time, but eventually lost it. The Grand Am was later found abandoned in Richland County, the Ohio Attorney General's office said.

The officer was not hurt during the incident. It's unclear if the driver or any passengers were hurt during the shooting.

The incident was recorded by the officer's body-worn camera. Law enforcement released images from that footage to try and identify the driver.

Anyone with information about the unidentified man shown in the BCI public bulletin issued today is urged to contact the Knox County Sheriff’s Office at 740-397-3333.