CLEVELAND — Early Saturday morning, an on-duty Cleveland Police sergeant was completing paperwork outside of Belinda's Night Club on Madison Avenue when he watched a 34-year-old man chase and shoot a 28-year-old man, according to police.
The sergeant shot the man after giving verbal commands for him to drop his weapon. It is unknown where the man was shot or what condition he is in, however, he was transported to MetroHealth Medical Center for treatment of the gunshot wound, police said.
According to police, a preliminary investigation indicates that the 28-year-old man and the 34-year-old were involved in an altercation inside the nightclub that led to a physical fight outside of the club when the 28-year-old ran off. The 34-year-old man chased and shot him.
The 28-year-old was also transported to MetroHealth Medical Center for his gunshot wounds. His condition is unknown.
“In my eyes, he is an absolute hero. He took necessary action in response to a brazen gun attack that occurred adjacent to his zone car. This is a stark reminder of just how dangerous it is out there for Cleveland officers. I am and every citizen should be grateful to have officers like this supervisor protecting us,” said James P. O'Malley, president of the Fraternal Order of Police.
This matter remains under investigation. The involved officer will be placed on administrative leave according to Cleveland Police Protocol.
We spoke to those living in the area where the incident happened, one man who's lived in his home for four months says the gunfire has become a regular occurrence.
"Oh, probably about every other night. It's usually at nighttime like daytime but about every other night or so," said Richard Blankenship.
At Madison 89th Deli, they have been in their location since 1987, they say the crime used to be worse, but it still makes them worry.
"It's a little bit scary when it happens, especially at night," said the owner, Claude Nakhle.
Another resident who's lived near Madison Avenue for 45 years hopes it doesn't change peoples' view of the neighborhood because he says it's not a bad area.
"It doesn't mean it doesn't reflect really that true picture of a neighborhood," said Faouzi Baddour.
All three agree that they don't want more crime, but safer streets instead.
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