Lakewood, Ohio – Oct 08 (V7N) - Winnie Dortch, a reporter for WOIO 19 News in Cleveland, was hospitalized after sustaining gunshot wounds in an apparent domestic violence incident on the morning of Monday, October 7, 2024. The shooting occurred around 8 a.m. on Clifton Boulevard in Lakewood, Ohio.
 
Lakewood police responded to initial reports of a heated argument between two individuals. Shortly after, officers were informed of gunfire. Upon their arrival at the scene, they discovered Dortch and an unidentified man lying on the sidewalk, both with gunshot injuries. The man was pronounced dead on-site, while Dortch was rushed to a local hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery. According to her family, the surgery was successful, though she remains in recovery.
 
Police recovered a firearm at the scene and are actively investigating the relationship between Dortch and the deceased, as well as the circumstances that led to the shooting. No further details have been provided by the Lakewood Police Department.
 
In a statement, WOIO 19 News expressed deep concern and heartbreak over the incident. News Director Brian Sinclair commented, "Our dear colleague Winnie Dortch was tragically injured in a horrific domestic violence attack this morning. She was immediately taken to MetroHealth Medical Center for surgery. Our thoughts are with her, her daughter, and all victims of domestic violence in our community."
 
This shocking event has reignited urgent calls for stronger actions against domestic violence, spotlighting the need for more preventive measures to safeguard at-risk individuals.

END/NYC/SMA/