EDITOR’S NOTE: This story was updated at 4:55 p.m.
MADISON TOWNSHIP — Zachary Michael Zeiter, 34, is being sought in connection with a stabbing incident on Wednesday that led to the soft lockdown of two Madison Local School buildings, according to a press release from the Richland County Sheriff’s Office.
“Our office has identified the suspect of the felonious assault which occurred on North McElroy Road this afternoon as Zachary Michael Zeiter,” Sheriff Steve Sheldon said. “Mr. Zeiter remains at-large and should be considered dangerous.
“Our Office has obtained an arrest warrant on a charge of felonious assault and is actively attempting to locate Mr. Zeiter. Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of Mr. Zeiter is encouraged to contact our Dispatch Center by dialing 419-524-2412 prompt #1.”
Sheldon stated the victim of the felonious assault, who sustained multiple stab wounds during the incident, was transported by medical helicopter from a local hospital to a Cleveland-area hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.
“Our office will continue to updated this incident as additional information becomes available,” Sheldon said.
The Richland County Sheriff’s Office is seeking a stabbing suspect that remained at-large Wednesday afternoon, forcing the soft lockdown of two Madison Local Schools buildings located in the neighborhood.
According to a press release issued at 3:21 p.m. by Sheldon, authorities were contacted at approximately noon about a possible stabbing in the 400 block of North McElroy Road.
“The victim had gone to the hospital for treatment and the information regarding the suspect was not very thorough,” Sheldon said in the press release.
“Deputies responded to the location and the suspect was not located at the residence. The Sheriff’s Office is in the process of obtaining a search warrant for the residence.”
Madison Comprehensive High School and Madison Junior High School were placed on a soft lockdown. Administrators at both both buildings sent a text message to parents/guardians in the district to advise the details of the situation in their respective buildings.
Sheldon said the suspect is still at-large and the Sheriff’s Office and Fugitive Task Force are on scene attempting to locate the the individual in the area.
This is a developing story and more details will be provided as they become available.