Multi-State Manhunt Ends in Tragedy After Scioto County Sexual Assault Investigation

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A sexual assault investigation in Scioto County, Ohio early Tuesday morning escalated into a multi-state law enforcement search that ended hours later with the suspect's death in southwest Virginia. The suspect, identified as 47-year-old Kenneth Phillips, was wanted in connection with the alleged sexual assault and was believed to be armed and possibly suicidal.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the serious and dangerous nature of sexual assault investigations and the risks law enforcement face when pursuing armed and potentially suicidal suspects across state lines. It also raises questions about mental health resources and support for those accused of violent crimes.

The details

According to the Scioto County Sheriff's Office, deputies were called after a woman reported a sexual assault. By the time officers arrived, the suspect had fled the scene. Investigators used emergency phone-tracking measures to trace the suspect's location across state lines into Kentucky, Virginia, Tennessee, West Virginia, and North Carolina. Just before 4 a.m., authorities in Wise County, Virginia spotted the suspect's vehicle and attempted a traffic stop, leading to a pursuit. Law enforcement deployed spike strips, disabling the vehicle, and shortly after the car came to rest, deputies heard a gunshot. The suspect was found inside the vehicle with a fatal self-inflicted gunshot wound.

• The initial sexual assault call came in early Tuesday morning in Scioto County, Ohio.
• The multi-state manhunt lasted for several hours, spanning across multiple state lines.
• The pursuit and suspect's death occurred just before 4 a.m. in Wise County, Virginia.

What’s next

The Scioto County Sheriff's Office will continue its investigation into the alleged sexual assault, while Virginia authorities will investigate the circumstances surrounding the suspect's death.