STORMS SLAM CENTRAL OHIO
It was quite an afternoon across central Ohio as fast moving storms packing rain, and high winds struck around 3:00 pm.
Licking County Emergency Management Agency Director Sean Grady said no injuries were reported.
First responders have fielded more than 30 calls of downed power lines. Grady has a reminder if you come across downed lines.
Grady said there were no tornado warnings in Licking County, however, he did hear of possible tornado touchdowns in Muskingum and Perry counties. Currently American Electric Power is reporting thousands of power outages across the central Ohio area. Crews are working to restore the power to the affected areas.
TRAGEDY IN DELAWARE COUNTY
Tragedy in Delaware County. Sunday, around 9:00 pm, emergency crews responded to the 8200 block of Riverside Drive on reports of an emergency along the Scioto River.
Delaware County Sheriff Jeff Balzer said two adult women were pulled from the water Sunday and later died at a local hospital. The bodies of three men were pulled from the river on Monday.
NFD PROMOTIONAL/SWEARING-IN CEREMONIES
Monday the Newark Fire Department held promotional ceremonies for three men and installed one new firefighter/paramedic. Deputy Chief Doug Vermaaten held a special message for family members.
Angelo Carroll was sworn in as a new Firefighter/Paramedic. Captain Brian Howe was promoted to Assistant Chief, Lieutenant Timothy Cooperrider was promoted to Captain, and Firefighter-Paramedic Jared McBride was promoted to Lieutenant.
DRUG BUST
Last Thursday, the Licking County Sheriff’s Office CODE Task Force partnered with the Columbus Police Department on an ongoing investigation into a narcotics trafficking organization operating in Central Ohio. Roughly 100 pounds of narcotics with an estimated street value exceeding $1 million was seized.
270 ENFORCEMENT
In an effort to cut down on fatal crashes, the Ohio State Highway Patrol alongside local and state safety partners, will be conducting a high-visibility enforcement project this week on Interstate 270. From the beginning of this year through July 9, there were 786 crashes on I-270, with 144 being related to unsafe speed. Drivers are reminded to obey posted speed limits, buckle up and never drive distracted or impaired.
POLICE CITIZEN'S ACADEMY
The Pataskala Police Department is currently accepting applications for its Citizens Police Academy. The free, interactive program gives residents and inside look at modern policing through hands-on classes, demonstrations, and conversations with officers. Space is limited. To register or for more information visit the Pataskala Police Department's Facebook page.