Reginald Thomas dies in fatal Dayton shooting

Reginald Thomas dies in fatal Dayton shooting

Fatal Dayton shooting death of Reginald Thomas – Obituary

Reginald Thomas, 24, was shot and killed by Dayton police on March 24 during an encounter in the downtown area. Authorities say the incident began around 9:30 p.m. near North St. Clair and East Third streets when an officer stopped Thomas while he was riding his bike. The officer reportedly approached him because his bike lacked a light and he was riding on the sidewalk.

Body camera footage shows Thomas explaining he rode on the sidewalk due to the absence of a bike lane and noted he had a reflector on his bike. When the officer asked to pat him down, Thomas attempted to flee. Ohio law permits carrying a concealed weapon, but requires disclosure to police when requested. During the pursuit, Thomas drew a firearm, and a struggle ensued with the officer. In the course of the struggle, Thomas reportedly moved toward a dropped gun, prompting the officer to fire once. Thomas was taken to a hospital, where he died from his injuries.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, while Dayton Police’s Professional Standards Bureau will conduct a separate administrative review. Community groups, including Ohio Families Unite Against Police Brutality, expressed outrage over the shooting, calling it another tragic loss at the hands of law enforcement and criticizing the recurring narratives around such incidents.