Suspect Fatally Shot by Cincinnati Police After Stabbing Incident and Chase

Cincinnati, OH – Cincinnati Police have identified Juan Mack, a 48-year-old man, as the suspect shot and killed by officers on Thursday night following a violent stabbing incident and subsequent chase. The tragic sequence began in Westwood, where Mack allegedly stabbed a woman, and ended in Over-the-Rhine after he brandished a handgun at pursuing officers.

During a press conference on Friday, Police Chief Teresa Theetge presented body camera footage of the incident, showing officers commanding and pleading with Mack to drop his weapon. In the footage, Mack can be heard shouting phrases like “I’m going to hell. I got a body on me,” referencing the stabbing incident.

The ordeal began when a 911 caller from Parkcrest Avenue reported a horrifying scene: a woman fleeing from a blue Honda into his garage, followed by a man who then stabbed her repeatedly. The caller estimated the woman was stabbed “10 times.” Responding officers quickly identified the Honda and spotted a bloodied Mack, prompting a pursuit.

Chief Theetge explained, “The officers were aware of the stabbing incident involving the woman. They knew they had to intervene.” During the chase, Mack pointed a firearm at the officers, escalating the threat. The pursuit ended at 12th and Elm streets when Mack exited the vehicle and began walking north.

Despite officers’ attempts to use nonlethal force, these measures were ineffective. Ultimately, four officers collectively fired six shots at Mack, resulting in his death at the scene. The officers’ names have not been disclosed immediately in accordance with Marsy’s Law.

While expressing condolences to Mack’s family, Chief Theetge commended the officers’ actions as heroic, stating, “This situation had the potential to escalate into a catastrophic event.” The incident occurred near the bustling area of Washington Park, where many were gathered for the opening night of the Cincinnati Opera at Music Hall.

Councilmember Scotty Johnson, a former police officer, described the incident as tragic but acknowledged the police’s efforts to resolve it peacefully. “From what I’ve observed, the police handled the situation tactically well,” he remarked. “Their priority was to preserve life, and they acted accordingly.”

The Cincinnati Police Department continues to investigate the incident, ensuring transparency and accountability. The community remains on edge, reflecting on the tragic events that unfolded and the loss of life involved.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and supportive of both the investigation and the affected families. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical and often dangerous situations faced by law enforcement officers.