The St. Clair Township Police Department has released additional details about Wednesday’s tragic shootout, including the identities of the injured officer and the child who was killed.
Detective Dakota Wetzel remains in stable condition at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh. According to Chief Brian McKenzie, Wetzel was able to open his eyes and give a thumbs-up to family members overnight. He remains in intensive care but is showing signs of progress.
“We are optimistic,” McKenzie said.
The four-year-old child who lost her life has been identified as Rosalie Carey. Chief McKenzie expressed the department’s condolences to her family.
“Everyone at the St. Clair Township Police Department continues to pray for Rosalie’s family after her terribly tragic passing,” McKenzie said.
The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon when officers responded to a report of a suicidal man, 30-year-old Joseph Como, walking along St. Clair Avenue. Como opened fire on officers shortly after they approached him, striking Detective Wetzel. Officers returned fire, hitting Como. Both Como and Rosalie Carey, who was struck by a bullet while inside a nearby business, later died.
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) is leading an independent investigation into the shooting.
Meanwhile, the Ohio Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Foundation is raising money to support Detective Wetzel and Rosalie Carey’s family. Donations can be made here, with all contributions earmarked for the families.
This story is developing, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
