LIMA, OH — January 6, 2026
Police established a crime scene perimeter around the front entrance of the Lima YMCA Tuesday night following reports of shots fired in the parking lot. Yellow crime scene tape blocked off the main walkway and front-facing parking areas, limiting public access to the facility.
At approximately 8:45 PM, multiple police cruisers with lights flashing were seen surrounding the building. Officers taped off several access points, creating a perimeter that extended across sidewalks, lawn areas, and drive lanes. The police response appeared focused on the exterior of the building.
Update – January 7, 2026:
City officials have confirmed that the incident involved a shooting in the YMCA parking lot. According to a joint statement from Lima Mayor Sharetta Smith and Police Chief Curtis Hile, officers responded to multiple 911 calls around 8:00 PM and located several spent shell casings at the scene.
A 17-year-old male later arrived at Mercy Health–St. Rita’s with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the leg. A 19-year-old suspect has been arrested and charged with felonious assault and improperly discharging a firearm on prohibited premises.
No further injuries were reported, and the investigation remains ongoing.