Mayor Sharetta T. Smith and Lima Police Department Issue Joint Statement on Officer-Involved Shooting

Joint release from City of Lima and Lima Police Department:

LIMA, OHIO – On October 31st, 2025, Lima Police Department (LPD) officers conducted a traffic stop on St. Johns Ave just north of Second St. During the encounter, Emerson Jeffrey produced a handgun and fired upon officers striking an officer. Officers returned fire striking Mr. Jeffrey which neutralized the threat. Officers immediately began life saving measures. Mr. Jeffrey was transported to Lima Memorial Hospital and later transported to the Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio. The City of Lima and Lima Police Department are sharing verified updates and next steps in the interest of transparency and community trust.

Confirmed Medical & Custody Status

• Suspects: Mr. Jeffrey is in custody and remains hospitalized under law-enforcement supervision.
• Officers: One officer was transported to Mercy Health St. Rita’s and remains hospitalized in stable condition. No other officers required medical attention.
• A front seat passenger was injured during the incident; however, was treated and released after a short time at Mercy Health St. Rita’s.

Officials will update these statuses as treating physicians and investigators confirm additional details.

Investigations & Administrative Actions

Per Ohio practice, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) is conducting an independent investigation into the officers’ use of force. The LPD is conducting a separate criminal investigation into the suspects’ actions.

In accordance with the LPD policy, after an officer utilizes deadly force they shall be placed on administrative leave. Seven LPD officers have been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the BCI investigation. Such administrative leave does not imply the officer acted improperly. This procedure protects the integrity of the investigation and the rights of everyone involved.

Body-Worn Camera (BWC) & Evidence Transparency

Consistent with best-practice guidance and recent Ohio precedents, they will release relevant BWC video as soon as legally and ethically permissible, with necessary redactions and after consultation with affected families and investigators. They are working toward a timely public release, barring legal constraints. They will announce the exact timing once confirmed.