Franklin County Deputy Shooting: Slain Suspect Identified

COLUMBUS, OHIO — Authorities have identified an Ohio man killed in a gunfight with a Franklin County deputy after a chase in Columbus. The shooting happened around 6:30 p.m. Saturday in the southwest part of the city, authorities said.

The sheriff's office identified the suspect Sunday as Darrell Bruffy, 55, of Orient.

The deputy, whose name hasn't been released, had to undergo surgery in the hospital but the injury appears to be non life-threatening, said Sheriff Dallas Baldwin.

"It appears that he is in stable condition, which is very, very good news," Baldwin told reporters.

The deputy is a seven-year veteran.

The shooting stemmed from a traffic stop near Harrisburg and Kline Road, the sheriff's office said in a statement.

"The suspect fled the scene in his pickup truck and was pursued by the deputy," the statement said.

The chase ended when the suspect's vehicle smashed into a pole at Eaken Road and Harrisburg Pike, also known as state Route 3.

When the deputy arrive, a shootout erupted and the suspect was killed.

The shooting happened on the one-year anniversary of last year's killing of the Kirkersville police chief and during police memorial week.

"Tonight is a real reminder of how dangerous police work is at this day and time," Baldwin said. "It just seems like it gets worse continually."

An investigation remains ongoing.

Baldwin called it "the worst call you can receive."

"To get a call form your radio room that you've had a deputy shot or an officer shot, you immediately think the worst," he said.

Numerous deputies and police officers were at the hospital to offer their support.

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