On November 21, 2025, at around 10:30 a.m., a patrol officer from the Mount Vernon Police Department responded to reports of threats made against several individuals. According to statements and text messages from the victims, the suspect had repeatedly threatened physical harm and death. It was also reported that the suspect possessed multiple firearms.
An arrest warrant was issued for Justin L. Ross, 34, on two counts of aggravated menacing and one count of telecommunications harassment. When officers attempted to serve the warrant at his residence on West Vine Street at approximately 11:30 a.m., the situation escalated into a standoff with Ross, who was armed and barricaded inside.
The Mount Vernon Police Department quickly established a perimeter and activated its Emergency Services Unit. Detectives were called in, and assistance was provided by the Knox County Sheriff's Office and Knox County Dog Wardens Office.
Due to the proximity of Learning Center School, staff were notified immediately. The school went into lockdown, and evacuation procedures were initiated. By 12:15 p.m., students and staff were safely evacuated to Mount Vernon High School's field house.
After about two hours of negotiation, Ross surrendered without incident at approximately 1:35 p.m. He was taken to Knox County Jail where he is held without bond. At least one firearm was seized from his residence, and a search warrant is being prepared as part of an ongoing investigation by the Mount Vernon Police Department.
Chief Robert K. Morgan said that victim information will not be released in compliance with Ohio's Marsy's Law.
Information from this article can be found here.
