By 1812Blockhouse
A reported road rage confrontation on Lexington–Springmill Road near U.S. 30 escalated into a fatal shooting, according to the Ontario Division of Police.
Police say the incident involved two vehicles traveling southbound in the area. Preliminary information indicates that one driver exited his vehicle and approached the other, leading to a confrontation in the roadway.
Investigators identified the individual who exited his vehicle as Andrew Westlund, a 42-year-old man. Police report that Westlund approached the second vehicle, where the confrontation continued.
The driver of the second vehicle, identified as Wesley Patrick, 27, told officers that he rolled down his window and fired one round, striking Westlund. Westlund was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Patrick was taken into custody at the scene and has been charged with voluntary manslaughter. The Richland County Prosecutor’s Office assisted Ontario police during the response.
Additional agencies involved in the investigation and scene management included the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Springfield Township Fire Department, the Ontario Street Department, and the Ohio Department of Transportation.
The incident remains under active investigation. Police say no additional details are being released at this time and are asking anyone with information to contact law enforcement.
Source: Ontario Division of Police
