Dear Ohio State Community Member:
You are receiving this notice because a crime has occurred that is considered to be of a concern and/or a continuing threat to the campus community.
The purpose of this message is to heighten your safety awareness by providing community members with information necessary to take appropriate precautions, enable you to take actions to help increase your safety, and to aid in the prevention of similar crimes.
On Monday, September 16, at approximately 8:30 p.m., a person flagged down a bus traveling on the John Herrick Bridge on Ohio State’s Columbus campus. The individual, who is not affiliated with Ohio State – meaning not a student, faculty or staff member – told the bus driver he had been shot and needed medical attention. Police and emergency personnel immediately responded and secured the area. The victim, who is an unhoused individual, was transported to the hospital in stable condition.
The victim told police that he was shot by another unhoused individual with whom he has had previous altercations. The suspect, Richard James Patridge, is known to police. A photo of the suspect is included below. OSUPD is the lead law enforcement agency and is investigating the crime. Law enforcement set up a perimeter and is actively searching for him. Do not confront the suspect. Anyone with information is encouraged to call OSUPD at 614-292-2121 or dial 9-1-1. Police will remain in the area as long as needed.
Crimes are never the fault of the victim. OSUPD encourages everyone to lock doors and windows. When possible, please walk with friends or coworkers and always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. If you see something, say something: report suspicious behavior by calling police. Additional safety resources are available at: dps.osu.edu/resources
OSUPD carefully considers information contained in safety notices. All decisions are handled on a case-by-case basis with the safety of our campus community in mind. Law enforcement officers and dispatchers are trained to interview witnesses in an effort to obtain as much information as possible, such as build, hair style, hair color, facial hair, skin tone, eye color, tattoos or identifying marks, teeth, clothing, shoes, etc. OSUPD may limit the use of race, or other descriptors, unless accompanied by a detailed description of the suspect. In an effort to share information in a timely manner, details may be limited and are based on information known or reported at the time of issuance.