New Albany, Ohio – A violent outbreak at a local warehouse resulted in two deaths and left four others injured as employees scrambled for safety. The incident occurred Tuesday night in the warehouse of a New Albany industrial park, roughly 15 miles northeast of Columbus.
The suspected shooter, identified as 28-year-old Bruce Reginald Foster III, was arraigned in court on Thursday where his bond was set at $20 million. He is currently seeking legal representation, with a preliminary hearing expected soon.
The turmoil unfolded when Foster allegedly opened fire at his colleagues within the production area of the facility, which manufactures cosmetics and toiletries. In a desperate 911 call, a worker reported being shot in the neck but managed to disarm Foster, handing the gun over to a supervisor. This act potentially prevented further violence.
Local authorities rushed to the scene, barely missing Foster as he fled via a rideshare vehicle. A manhunt ensued involving drones and a police dog, leading to Foster’s arrest in a Columbus apartment early Wednesday morning. Upon his apprehension, resistant to surrender, officers utilized a stun gun.
Among the victims was Shakhar Chapagai, 30, who succumbed to his injuries Wednesday evening at Mount Carmel East Hospital in Columbus. The other victim, Kyle Vaver, 38, of Pickerington, died at the scene.
Details regarding the conditions of the four remaining wounded individuals have not yet been disclosed.
New Albany Police Chief Greg Jones revealed that while Foster had interacted with investigators, he did not fully cooperate. The relationship between Foster and the victims, including whether there was any prior conflict, remains unclear.
Jones noted, “Nobody reported that there was any conflict or that he was in trouble at work,” adding to the confusion about the motive for the shooting.
This tragic event has left the community and the employees of the company, where about 150 were present during the incident, shaken and in search of answers.
As the community mourns and law enforcement continues with their investigation, the unsettling peace has rattled not only the workers directly involved but also the wider New Albany area, prompting increased concerns over workplace safety and security measures. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for workplace violence, even in locations where no prior issues have been reported.