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NEW ALBANY, OH — A tragic mass shooting unfolded late Monday night at KDC/ONE, a manufacturing facility located in the 8000 block of Smith’s Mill Road, leaving one person dead and five others injured. Law enforcement agencies are actively searching for the suspect, identified as Bruce Reginald Foster III, as the community reels from the shocking incident.

Incident Overview

At approximately 10:30 p.m. on February 4, the New Albany Police Department (NAPD) responded to multiple 911 calls reporting an active shooter inside KDC/ONE, a major production facility.

Authorities have confirmed the following:

  • One victim was found dead inside the building.
  • Five individuals were injured and transported to local hospitals; their conditions remain undisclosed.
  • Approximately 150 employees were safely evacuated as law enforcement secured the scene.
  • The suspect, Bruce Reginald Foster III, remains at large.
  • Foster is described as 6 feet tall, weighing 175 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.

Immediate Law Enforcement Response

Upon arrival, police quickly secured the perimeter of KDC/ONE, evacuating all employees while searching for the gunman. Officers discovered multiple victims inside the facility, prompting immediate medical response teams to assist the injured. Despite their swift actions, one individual succumbed to injuries before medical personnel could intervene.

Authorities are currently investigating what led to the shooting and whether Foster had a direct connection to the victims or the facility itself.

Suspect Search and SWAT Operation

In an effort to locate Foster, law enforcement expanded their search early Wednesday morning, tracking a possible connection to a residence on Morsetown Court South near Minerva Park. At approximately 4 a.m., an Ohio State Highway Patrol helicopter spotted a vehicle matching Foster’s description.

A Columbus Police SWAT unit executed a search warrant at the residence, making contact with multiple occupants. However, authorities later determined that the individuals and vehicle were not connected to the shooting, leaving the suspect’s whereabouts unknown.

Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, U.S. Marshals, and Ohio State Patrol, are actively assisting in the search for Foster. Police are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the suspect immediately.

Eyewitness Accounts and Employee Reactions

Employees who were inside the facility at the time of the shooting described a chaotic and terrifying scene.

“We heard several gunshots, and everyone started running,” said Michael Trent, a KDC/ONE employee. “Some of us hid under desks, while others rushed for the exits. It was complete panic.”

Another worker, Lisa Caldwell, recounted the harrowing moments when police arrived. “We didn’t know what was happening. The alarms were going off, and officers were shouting for us to get to safety. I’m still shaken up.”

Family members of the victims and employees gathered outside the facility, anxiously awaiting updates. New Albany Mayor Sloan Spalding addressed the public, assuring them that authorities are doing everything possible to bring the suspect to justice and support the victims’ families.

Community Impact and Public Safety Concerns

The shooting has sent shockwaves through the New Albany community, raising concerns about workplace safety and gun violence. Residents and local officials are demanding increased security measures to prevent future tragedies.

“We need to have real conversations about how we can make our workplaces safer,” said Councilman Ryan Matthews. “No one should fear for their life while simply doing their job.”

Investigation and Possible Motive

Authorities have not yet disclosed a possible motive for the shooting. Detectives are currently investigating whether Foster had a personal or professional connection to KDC/ONE or any of the victims.

Reports indicate that Foster has a prior criminal history, though police have not confirmed whether he had any known grievances with the company or employees.

Law Enforcement’s Appeal to the Public

Law enforcement officials have emphasized the urgency of locating Foster, warning that he may still be armed and dangerous.

“We need the public’s assistance in finding this suspect,” said New Albany Police Chief Greg Jones. “If you see Bruce Foster, do not approach him. Instead, call 911 immediately.”

Authorities are offering a reward for information leading to Foster’s arrest. Anyone with details about his whereabouts is urged to contact the New Albany Police Department at (614) 855-1234 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-TIPS (8477).

What’s Next?

As law enforcement intensifies its search efforts, authorities have advised residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activity. Schools and businesses in the vicinity have been placed on high alert, with some implementing additional security precautions.

Officials will provide further updates as the investigation unfolds. Meanwhile, the New Albany community mourns the loss of a life cut short and prays for the recovery of the injured victims.

Conclusion

The tragic shooting at KDC/ONE in New Albany has left the city in mourning while a massive manhunt continues for Bruce Reginald Foster III. As police work tirelessly to locate the suspect, the community remains on edge, hoping for justice and answers.

This is a developing story, and further details will be released as new information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and exercise caution in the coming days.

For ongoing coverage, follow local news outlets and updates from the New Albany Police Department. 


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