The events of March 31–including the pursuit and arrest of three suspects who drove across Ohio at speeds up to 140 miles per hour and who struck and killed Bluffton Police officer Dominic Francis–have gripped the greater Bluffton area.
They have also attracted attention across Ohio, the midwest, and the nation, bringing messages of condolence and support from near and far, including from Mayor of Bluffton Richard Johnson:
“The people of the Bluffton community and surrounding areas are experiencing a tragedy that we many times thought, and hoped, we would not have to face.
Most, if not all of you, in the village, as well as from many miles surrounding our community, have already heard of the news of the death of one of our police officers, Dominic Francis. Our hearts are heavy. In the years I have been Mayor, I have had the privilege of getting to know Officer Francis on a professional basis, as well as getting to know the personal side of him.
Officer Francis was a very dedicated and devoted officer. He was respected by his fellow police officers and always performed his duties above and beyond the call of duty.
Personally, Officer Francis was a kind, fun and hardworking young man. The Village of Bluffton has lost a fine and outstanding police officer, and on behalf of the Village Council and myself, I want to express our deepest sympathy to his wife, children and all of his family.
With a heavy heart,
Mayor Richard Johnson
At a press conference held on Thursday, Bluffton Chief of Police Ryan Burkholder described how Francis had served Bluffton as a full-time police officer for nine years, was a firefighter and had also worked for the Cory-Rawson School District where he taught, drove buses and coached sports: “This community lost a hero. He was an outstanding police officer….He had a heart of gold.”
Governor DeWine ordered that flags of the United States and the State of Ohio be flown at half-staff upon all public buildings and grounds throughout Allen and Hancock counties, the Ohio Statehouse, the Vern Riffe Center, and the Rhodes State Office Tower. Flags shall remain lowered until sunset on the day of Francis’s funeral.
