Chaos unfolded at the Pleasant Valley Apartments in Wheelersburg after a terrified grandmother called 911, reporting a drunk man waving a gun — and pointing it at her grandson and others nearby.
When the first deputy arrived, residents gave chilling instructions:
🔫 “He’s back in his apartment… the gun’s tucked in the couch.”
🚪 “The screen door is closed, main door’s open.”
⚠️ The Officer told residents to Shelter in Place
Realizing the danger, the officer held position and called for backup. Once additional units arrived, officers moved in, detaining the man at gunpoint and sweeping the apartment.
The man, identified as Brian Martin, was arrested and booked into the Scioto County Jail on the following charges:
- 3️⃣ Counts of aggravated menacing
- One count of using weapons while intoxicated
He was arraigned in Portsmouth Municipal Court, released from jail, and is scheduled for a pre-trial hearing on September 8.
📄 The original victim later refused to provide a written statement, but the investigation is ongoing.
🛑 When Shelter-in-Place Orders Are Given — TAKE THEM SERIOUSLY
🔐 Stay inside. Lock all doors and windows.
👂 Stay alert. Listen for instructions from law enforcement.
📱 Avoid posting live updates that might tip off the suspect.
🚓 Let officers do their job. Don’t approach or engage with suspects.
👨👩👧👦 Keep kids calm and close.
⚠️ Warning Signs of Trouble: Know Before It Escalates
- Excessive drinking + access to firearms = 🚨
- Threats or aggressive behavior toward others
- Prior criminal history involving violence or weapons
- Neighbors expressing concern — don’t ignore them
Because when there’s a gun in the couch and a child in the line of fire, one call, one wrong move, or one missed warning can change everything. Stay safe. Stay smart. And when police say shelter in place, they mean it.
