WEST PORTSMOUTH, OH — A neighborhood dispute escalated dramatically when a West Portsmouth man called 911 claiming a neighbor sprayed him with bear spray before crashing into his vehicle while fleeing the scene.
According to dispatch traffic, the caller reported being sprayed with bear spray but declined an ambulance, telling dispatchers he was okay and “just wanted to shower.”
During the 911 call, another man’s voice could be heard in the background as the argument continued.
The caller also reported that much of the neighborhood had come outside during the confrontation.
🚗 Vehicle Rammed While Leaving
When Scioto County Sheriff’s deputies arrived, the caller told them the other man had already left the area.
According to the report, the suspect allegedly drove away in a vehicle with numerous dents after first ramming the caller’s vehicle while leaving.
Deputies broadcast a description of the vehicle and asked Portsmouth police officers to watch for it.
Authorities documented the incident and completed a report.
⚠️ Bear Spray Isn’t Just for Bears
While marketed as a defense tool against aggressive wildlife, bear spray can cause intense burning of the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.
Using it against another person outside of a lawful self-defense situation can lead to criminal charges, depending on the circumstances.
Likewise, intentionally striking another person’s vehicle can result in charges ranging from criminal damaging to assault-related offenses if investigators determine it was done deliberately.
❗ A Neighborhood Argument That Escalated Fast
Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.
But what reportedly began as a verbal dispute quickly escalated into allegations of chemical spray, property damage, and a vehicle fleeing the scene—another reminder of how quickly neighborhood disagreements can spiral beyond words.
