Eric Bradford Taylor, a 31-year-old male officer with the Massillon Police Department, tragically lost his life on August 9, 2002. Taylor was shot and killed following a vehicle and foot pursuit of a suspect that ended near Cherry Road and First Street Northwest in Massillon, Ohio. The incident began when a state trooper made a traffic stop at Ohio 21 and Edwards Street in Doylestown, and the suspect opened fire on the trooper before fleeing. 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, continuing 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 and is survived by his wife, 3-year-old son, and 1-year-old daughter. The suspect involved in the incident was also killed during the exchange of gunfire. The investigation into the incident revealed that Patrolman Taylor and the suspect exchanged gunfire multiple times during the pursuit, leading to their simultaneous deaths.
The tragic loss of Patrolman Eric Bradford Taylor deeply affected the Massillon community and the law enforcement community at large. Taylor was remembered as a dedicated officer and a loving family man. His sacrifice is honored by his fellow officers and the community, who continue to remember his service and dedication.
