LIMA, OHIO -
A bystander is accidentally shot in the hand, and an officer is on paid administrative leave after an incident on Kibby Street Tuesday morning.
According to the Lima Police Department, officers were helping employees of the Allen County Dog Warden's office catch two pit bulls that were running down an alley when it happened.
The officer was shooting at the pit bulls when one of the bullets ricocheted and hit a man walking down the sidewalk.
Major Chip Protsman says it all started around 8:40 a.m. near Kibby Street, in an alley between Elizabeth and West streets. One of the two pit bulls bit the dog warden on the foot and lunged at an officer. That's when Patrolman Frank Vaccaro shot at the dogs.
64 year old Ronald Keller was walking on Kibby Street about 150 to 200 yards away. One of the bullets ricocheted and hit him in the hand. He was taken to St. Rita's Medical Center where he is in fair condition.
Officer Vaccaro has been with the department for nine years. He is now on paid administrative leave. The pit bull that was wounded ran off, and is still on the loose. Major Protsman says the department is reviewing its policy use on the use firearms against animals.
Protsman says if anyone sees a dark striped pit bull they should immediately call the police department.
