Steven Smith - Police Officer Fatality - Columbus, Ohio

Police Officer Steven Smith, age 54, died in the line of duty on April 12, 2016, at a hospital in Columbus, Ohio. 

Steven Smith

Officer Smith was a member of the Columbus Division of Police. He had 27 years of service. He had served in the Patrol Bureau, Strategic Response Bureau, Helicopter Unit, Narcotics Bureau, S.W.A.T. Unit and the Dive Team.

Late on April 9, 2016, a SWAT team was assigned to serve an arrest warrant against Lincoln Rutledge, age 44, of Columbus.  Officer Smith was part of the SWAT team. 

Lincoln Rutledge had attempted to set his estranged wife's home on fire and had verbally threatened her with a gun. Co-workers and friends had stated that he had been losing control for months and was steadily getting worse. 

The SWAT team, in an armored vehicle, approached the apartment building where Lincoln Rutledge lived. Steven was riding in the turret of the vehicle. Lincoln Rutledge opened fire, striking Steven. 

Steven was rushed to a local hospital where, tragically, he succumbed to his injuries on April 12th. 

Lincoln Rutledge was arrested and will be charged with murder. 

The Columbus Police are in mourning over the death of their brother. Steven was a dedicated professional who always wanted to get the job done. He was there for others. He would give the shirt off of his back to his comrades. He will be forever remembered.

Steven's loved ones are devastated over his tragic death. He did his best. He was

Michael, Patron Saint of the Police, pray for
Steven and for those who have lost him.

loved. He will be forever mourned.

Steven is survived by many loving comrades, friends and family members including his wife, Lisa, and two adult children - Jesse and Brittany.

Thank you for your service to the community, Steve. 

Pray for all who die in the line of duty.

God save us from the Lost Ones who bring death to strangers. Amen.

Pray that Steven is in Heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.