Tragic Murder-Suicide Rocks Ohio Community
A quiet neighbourhood in Tiffin, Ohio, became the scene of an unimaginable tragedy on Wednesday evening when a man killed his infant son, his seven-year-old stepson and the boy's biological father before turning the gun on himself.
Domestic Dispute Turns Deadly
Ryan Eagon, 42, allegedly committed the horrific acts after discovering his wife was planning to move out of their home on Huss Street amid what police described as "ongoing domestic issues". The Tiffin Police Department confirmed officers were called to the 100 block of Huss Street just before 6:30pm on Wednesday following reports of gunshots.
Upon arrival, authorities discovered four victims with gunshot wounds. The scene also included a woman who was physically unharmed but described as being "clearly in a state of shock, overwhelmed and visibly traumatised".
Chaotic Scene Unfolds During Move-Out Attempt
Investigators revealed that Dustin Willey, 29, the father of the seven-year-old boy, was helping Eagon's wife move her belongings from the property. The pair reportedly believed Eagon was out of town for work at the time.
According to police statements, Willey and the woman were inside gathering remaining possessions while the children waited outside near a vehicle. The situation turned deadly when they heard the older boy cry out and went to investigate in the driveway.
Eagon confronted them and allegedly chased Willey while firing multiple shots toward him. Police stated he then shot both children before firing again at Willey. Eagon reportedly then shot himself and was found with one self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Community Mourns Unthinkable Loss
The devastated mother called 911 and carried her lifeless children back into the home, according to police accounts. Willey and the seven-year-old boy were rushed to Tiffin Mercy Hospital but later died from their injuries. The seven-month-old baby and Eagon were pronounced dead at the scene.
Kelly Gallagher, Willey's former boss, told local media that Willey was a devoted father. "He would do anything for that boy," she said. "He just showed what it's like to be a single dad and that he was going to be a part of his life. He did a lot with him."
Police Chief David Pauly addressed the tragedy in a Facebook post, stating: "As a community, we are not accustomed to events of this horrific and heartbreaking nature in Tiffin. I ask that all residents keep the victims' families in their thoughts as they face unimaginable loss."
Police confirmed that autopsies are pending from the Seneca County Coroner's Office and that the investigation remains ongoing.
