Vest-wearing security guard survives Christmas eve shooting; suspects remain at large

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Two suspects remain at large in connection to the shooting of a security guard who survived thanks to a bulletproof vest.

Columbus police said a man working as an unarmed security guard was shot in the early hours of Christmas Eve in 2023. Officers responded to reports of shots fired at The Spot Bar on East Livingston Avenue, near Reynoldsburg, at 2:25 a.m.

Police said the victim was attempting to clear the outside area of the bar after closing time when he approached to men standing in the parking lot. One of the men reportedly became argumentative and pulled out a handgun.

The security guard was shot multiple times in the torso, arms and legs, but police said his life was saved due to a bulletproof vest he was wearing.

The suspects, who were allegedly talking to two women who frequent the bar, fled the scene in a mid-sized, gray SUV. They are believed to be in their late twenties to early thirties.

Central Ohio Crime Stoppers is asking for assistance regarding any information leading to the arrest and/or indictment of the person(s) responsible for this crime. Anyone with information is asked to call 614-461-TIPS (8477) or visit www.stopcrime.org and submit your tip.