Armed Assault at Ohio Governor Campaign Rally Leaves Volunteers Injured, Candidate Unharmed

Sunday’s campaign stop at the Canfield Fair turned chaotic when a 38‑year‑old man surged forward, brandishing two pistols and a pair of brass knuckles, and headed straight for Democratic gubernatorial candidate Dr. Amy Acton.

According to Mahoning County Sheriff Jerry Greene, the suspect – identified as Patrick Havas of Canfield – forced his way through the crowd while holding a cell phone aloft. In the scramble he knocked over two seniors on mobility scooters; one fell and struck his head, prompting immediate concern from on‑lookers.

Acton herself emerged physically unharmed, but the incident left several campaign volunteers and the two elderly individuals with injuries ranging from bruises to minor concussions. “He literally bull‑rushed through the crowd, knocked our volunteers down, pushed an elderly gentleman with Parkinson’s and caused him to hit his head,” said Wayne Penny Jr., a fellow Democratic candidate who was present.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers attached to Acton’s security detail reacted quickly, subduing Havas and securing the weapons. Havas is now being held at Mahoning County Jail on two misdemeanor assault counts and a disorderly‑conduct charge.

Democratic leaders reacted with a mixture of relief and resolve. Campaign communications director Addie Bullock expressed gratitude for law‑enforcement’s swift action and offered prayers for those hurt, emphasizing that “violence has no place in Ohio.” Republican rival Vivek Ramaswamy, who is currently leading in the race, condemned the attack as “completely unacceptable,” noting that candidates should be able to meet voters without fearing for their safety.

Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson echoed that sentiment, calling the attempted violence “unacceptable” and praising the rapid response of the State Highway Patrol. Governor Mike DeWine also issued a statement, thanking everyone for Acton’s safety and extending thoughts to the injured.

The episode has reignited conversation about security at political events, especially as Ohio heads toward a tightly contested November election. While the suspect’s firearms were legally owned, officials say the incident underscores the need for heightened vigilance at public gatherings.

Acton, the former director of the Ohio Department of Health, continues her campaign focused on public‑health preparedness and community resilience, vowing to “stand up to the chaos, hate and vitriol that pits us against one another.” The race remains a focal point for both parties as they mobilize support across the Buckeye State.