Massillon Police Department, Ohio
End of Watch: Friday, August 9, 2002
Age: 31
Tour of Duty: 4 years
Badge Number: 91
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: August 9, 2002
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Shot and killed
Patrolman Eric Taylor was shot and killed following a vehicle and foot pursuit of a suspect that ended near Cherry Road and First Street Northwest.
The chase began when a state trooper made a traffic stop at Ohio 21 and Edwards Street in Doylestown. During the stop, the suspect opened fire on the trooper and fled. The suspect's vehicle became stuck in a field, and Patrolman Taylor and the suspect exchanged gunfire while still in their vehicles. The suspect then fled on foot and continued to exchange gunfire with Patrolman Taylor and other officers as they pursued him. Both Patrolman Taylor and the suspect were fatally wounded.
Patrolman Taylor had served with the Massillon Police Department for four years. He is survived by his wife, 3-year-old son, and 1-year-old daughter.