NEW ALBANY, OH – A tragic shooting at the KDC/ONE manufacturing facility on Smith’s Mill Road late Tuesday night has left one person dead and five others hospitalized. The suspect, Bruce Reginald Foster III, remains at large, prompting an intense manhunt by local and state law enforcement.
Shooting Details and Emergency Response
The New Albany Police Department (NAPD) responded to reports of gunfire at the facility around 10:30 p.m. on February 4. Officers arrived to a chaotic scene, quickly evacuating approximately 150 employees to prevent further casualties.
One victim was pronounced dead inside the building, while five others sustained injuries and were transported to local hospitals. Their current conditions remain unknown.
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Suspect on the Run
Authorities have identified the suspect as Bruce Reginald Foster III, a 6-foot-tall man with brown hair and eyes, weighing approximately 175 pounds.
Law enforcement believes the attack was targeted, though no clear motive has been established. Police have not reported any prior altercations or disputes leading up to the shooting.
Search for the Suspect: Law Enforcement Efforts
In the early hours of February 5, police followed a lead to a residence on Morsetown Court South, near Minerva Park. An Ohio State Highway Patrol helicopter spotted a vehicle matching a potential description linked to Foster.
The Columbus Police SWAT team executed a search warrant on the property, but the lead turned out to be false. The individuals and vehicle at the residence were determined to have no connection to the shooting.
KDC/ONE Facility and Community Impact
KDC/ONE, a major manufacturer of cosmetics and personal care products, is part of New Albany’s Beauty Park, an industrial hub that has significantly contributed to the local economy. Now, it finds itself at the center of a devastating tragedy.
The shooting has left the New Albany community in shock, raising concerns about workplace safety, emergency preparedness, and mental health awareness in professional environments.
Authorities Urge Public Assistance
Law enforcement officials continue to urge anyone with information about Foster’s whereabouts to come forward.
“We are following every lead and working diligently to locate the suspect,” police stated, emphasizing the evolving nature of the investigation.
Conclusion
As the search for Foster continues, New Albany remains united in grief and determination, offering support to the victims and their families. This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictability of violence and the importance of community vigilance.
Authorities will provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
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