Rosalie Martin Death – A devastating shootout on Wednesday afternoon, January 22, claimed the life of a 4-year-old girl, Rosalie Martin, and left a St. Clair Township detective critically injured in eastern Ohio.
The incident unfolded shortly after 2 p.m. when St. Clair Township police officers responded to a call regarding a potentially suicidal man.
Upon locating the individual, identified as 30-year-old Joseph Como, walking down the street, officers attempted to engage him in conversation. Without warning, Como opened fire on the officers.
Officers returned fire, fatally wounding Como. However, during the exchange of gunfire, tragedy struck when a bullet hit Rosalie Martin, who was at a nearby business. Detective Dakota Wetzel, one of the responding officers, was also shot in the head during the incident.
Rosalie was rushed to the hospital via helicopter but succumbed to her injuries later that evening. Initially identified as Rosalie Carey in early reports, authorities confirmed her name as Rosalie Martin. Her untimely death has left the community reeling, with tributes pouring in for the young girl.
Detective Wetzel was flown to a Pittsburgh-area hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery. Despite the severity of his injuries, he showed signs of recovery, with police reporting that he was able to open his eyes and give a thumbs-up to family members overnight. Wetzel remains in stable condition as he continues to recover.
The St. Clair Township Police Department expressed their deepest condolences to the Martin family, describing the incident as an unimaginable tragedy. The department has also acknowledged Wetzel’s bravery and is rallying around him as he begins his road to recovery.
Authorities have not released further details about the motive behind Como’s actions but continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The community is encouraged to keep the Martin family, Detective Wetzel, and the St. Clair Township Police Department in their thoughts during this difficult time.
