Michael Blankenship, a 43-year-old male police officer with the Ohio State University Police Department, was tragically shot and killed on February 10, 1997, in Columbus, OH. Officer Blankenship responded to a call about a suspicious person at the Wexner Center for the Arts. During the encounter, he was fatally shot by the suspect. The suspect, identified as Mark Edgerton, a 40-year-old male from Upper Arlington, later committed suicide.
Officer Blankenship had served with the Ohio State
University Police Department for seven years and had an additional 12 years of experience in law enforcement. He is survived by his wife and two daughters. The incident marked the first and only time a campus officer at Ohio State University was killed in the line of duty.
The aftermath of Officer Blankenship's death led to heightened security measures and increased awareness of the dangers associated with police work. His legacy continues to be honored by the Ohio State community, including the OSU Women’s Golf Team, which carries his name on their "Folds of Honor" golf bag.
The loss of Officer Blankenship deeply affected those who knew him, including students he had trained in self-defense and crime prevention. His dedication to teaching and protecting the community left a lasting impact on many lives.
In summary, Michael Blankenship's death was a result of a tragic shootout with a theft suspect, leading to the suspect's suicide. His contributions to law enforcement and the community are remembered and honored to this day.
