Ohio Officer Killed in Planned Ambush While on Lunch Break
LORAIN, Ohio — A quiet lunch break turned deadly for Lorain police officers this week after they were ambushed by a gunman lying in wait, resulting in the tragic death of one officer and critical injuries to two others.
Officer Phillip C. Wagner, 35, died after being shot multiple times on Wednesday afternoon while parked with a fellow officer in a remote, undeveloped area of Lorain. Wagner was flown to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland but later died surrounded by his family.
The attacker, identified as Michael Joseph Parker, 28, of Lorain, was also killed in the exchange of gunfire. Authorities confirmed he acted alone but have not released a motive for the attack.
The second officer, Peter Gale, 51, suffered multiple gunshot wounds and remains in critical condition. A third officer, Brent Payne, 47, was shot in the hand while responding to the scene and is expected to recover.
The ambush took place on a dead-end street overlooking a river and a steel mill. Wagner and Gale had parked to eat pizza when they were suddenly fired upon. As they called for backup, Payne arrived and was also shot before officers returned fire and killed Parker.
Investigators discovered multiple rifles, handguns, loaded magazines, and a large amount of improvised explosive materials in and around Parker’s vehicle. An autopsy confirmed Parker died from multiple gunshot wounds inflicted by officers during the firefight.
“This was a calculated ambush,” said Lorain Police Chief James Failing. “Officer Wagner was a dedicated, compassionate public servant and former Marine. Our department is devastated by this senseless act.”
Wagner joined the Lorain Police Department in 2022, following military service in the U.S. Marine Corps and time with the Sheffield Village Police Department. He was widely respected and known for his professionalism and kindness on the job.
“Our department mourns the loss of a true hero and stands in unwavering support of Officer Wagner’s family, friends, and fellow officers,” Failing added.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine ordered state and U.S. flags lowered to half-staff on all public buildings until sunset on the day of Wagner’s funeral.
Parker’s background has offered few clues to his motive. He lived with his parents in a well-maintained brick home in Lorain. Neighbors described him as quiet and socially distant, often seen walking the family dog alone.
“He kind of gave me the creeps,” said neighbor Jody Burnsworth, who has lived next door since 2012. “He wasn’t rude—just distant. He always looked ultra-focused, like something was on his mind.”
Burnsworth recalled avoiding opening her curtains on the side of the house that faced Parker’s. “I hate that I thought that about him,” she said, visibly shaken. “But there was always something unsettling.”
Police searched Parker’s home for over five hours Wednesday night. A drone was flown through an upstairs window as part of the operation.
Neighbors say Parker had been briefly employed at the post office but quit, reportedly finding the job too difficult. He rarely had visitors and was never seen with friends.
As the investigation continues, the Lorain community and law enforcement agencies across Ohio are mourning Officer Wagner’s death and rallying behind the wounded officers.
“He gave his life in service,” Chief Failing said. “We will not forget his sacrifice.”
