2 Officers Injured, Suspect Shot After Semi-Truck Chase in Akron

Authorities say the suspect struck multiple police cruisers and civilian vehicles during the incident.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A suspect in a semi-truck allegedly struck multiple police cruisers and civilian vehicles during a chase that began with a disturbance call at an IHOP in Springfield Township and ended with officers firing at the driver in Akron. Two officers were injured, and the suspect was shot at least once but is expected to survive.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the dangers that can arise from high-speed police chases, especially when a large commercial vehicle is involved. It also raises questions about the use of force by law enforcement and the protocols around officer-involved shootings.

The details

According to authorities, the chain of events began around 6 p.m. when Springfield Township officers responded to an IHOP for a report of a man causing a disturbance. The suspect left the restaurant, got into a semi-truck, and drove into a nearby Walmart parking lot. When officers tried to remove the suspect from the vehicle, he suddenly accelerated, striking a Springfield Township officer who was thrown from the moving truck. The suspect then led police on a chase onto Interstate 77 before entering Akron, where he struck several police cruisers and civilian vehicles. Two Akron officers and a Summit County Sheriff's deputy then fired their weapons, striking the suspect at least once.

  • The incident began around 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 1, 2026.
  • The suspect struck a Springfield Township officer around 6 p.m.
  • The chase entered Akron around 6:14 p.m.
  • The shooting occurred as the suspect approached Innovation Way in Akron.

The players

Springfield Township Officers

Law enforcement officers who initially responded to the disturbance call at the IHOP and attempted to apprehend the suspect in the semi-truck.

Akron Police Officers

Law enforcement officers who located the semi-truck in Akron and fired their weapons at the suspect, striking him at least once.

Summit County Sheriff's Deputy

A law enforcement officer who also fired their weapon at the suspect in Akron.

Suspect

The driver of the semi-truck who allegedly struck multiple police cruisers and civilian vehicles during the incident.

Mayor Shammas Malik

The mayor of Akron who expressed gratitude to the responding officers and provided an update on the injured Akron officer.

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What they’re saying

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to all of the law enforcement officers who responded. My thoughts are with one of our Akron officers who sustained a minor injury at the scene, and with the Springfield officer who was injured in the initial encounter. I am grateful that no officers or members of the public were more seriously harmed.”

— Mayor Shammas Malik (WKYC)

What’s next

The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation will lead the investigation into the shooting, and the findings will be forwarded to the Ohio Attorney General's Office and ultimately presented to a Summit County grand jury.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the risks and challenges faced by law enforcement during high-speed chases, especially when a large commercial vehicle is involved. It also raises important questions about the use of force and the protocols around officer-involved shootings that will likely be examined as the investigation unfolds.