COLUMBUS (WCMH) — Police are investigating an officer-involved shooting near a Steak’n Shake restaurant in north Columbus.

Just after 9am, Friday, police were called to the 5400 block of Cleveland Avenue on the report of a robbery at a Steak’n Shake.

Columbus Division of Police Sergeant James Fuqua said the suspect, identified as Kenneth M. Chandler, 36, was inside the restaurant for more than an hour before going to the register and demanding cash. After arguing with an employee, police say he walked away without any money.

As he left the restaurant, Fuqua said Chandler fired one shot from a firearm without hitting anyone.

Investigators believe the suspect then attempted to carjack a city of Columbus employee who was in a city vehicle in a parking lot nearby. The attempted carjacking was also unsuccessful.

Fuqua says the suspect then went behind a nearby building and changed clothes. By then, officers were arriving from various directions and spotted the suspect, who police said was still armed.

“One officer did fire several shots, knocking the suspect down and they were able to take him into custody,” Fuqua said.

The suspect was taken to an area hospital in critical condition.

Fuqua says investigators believe Chandler may have previously been involved in a similar robbery in the area.







“The fact that he even had the foresight to have a change of clothes and have a weapon, sit in the business for a substantial period of time and still plan this attack is something that is very unusual,” Fuqua said. “Fortunately for us and citizens his plan was unsuccessful and everyone is safe.”

No officers or employees were injured. Chandler is in custody with charges pending.