FEBRUARY 12 UPDATE:
Kentucky State Police Media Release
Ohio State Highway Patrol Media Release
February 12 Statement from The Ohio State University:
The university extends its deepest sympathies and condolences to the family and friends of Ohio State student Skylar Williams. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this terrible time, and our campus community is in mourning. Additional counseling and consultation services have been made available to members of the university community in need of support on our Mansfield campus. As always, students, faculty and staff can also access support services across the university.
See full statement from President Michael V. Drake
FEBRUARY 11 UPDATE (2:05 p.m.):
The Mansfield suspect, Ty’rell Pounds, stole a vehicle at gunpoint. Be on the lookout for a 2019 Dodge Caravan, dark in color, with the license plate FMZ-9621.
FEBRUARY UPDATE (1:38 p.m.):
On 2/11/19, at approximately 11:45 a.m., a female student (Skylar Williams) was standing in a parking lot located on our Mansfield campus when she was approached by a male suspect known to her. Reports indicate the suspect displayed a handgun and forced the female student into his vehicle. He then fled the area with the victim.
The suspect’s name is Ty’rell Pounds. A photo of the suspect and victim are attached. The vehicle has been located by law enforcement but the whereabouts of the victim and suspect are unknown at this time.
Local law enforcement is actively investigating. Anyone with details on Pounds’ whereabouts, or the whereabouts of Skylar Williams, should call the Mansfield Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol at 419-756-2222. Do not approach the suspect. He is believed to be armed and dangerous.
Victims are never at fault when crimes occur. We remind you to increase your overall safety by being cautious and looking out for one another; being aware of your surroundings and looking assertive; walking with a trusted friend or co-worker, when possible; if a situation makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, choose an alternative.