7 September 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Democratic candidate for Ohio governor Amy Acton was targeted by an armed man during a campaign stop at the Canfield Fair on Sunday, September 6, according to her campaign and law enforcement authorities.
Acton was unharmed, but several people were injured after the suspect forced his way through the crowd toward the candidate. The man was arrested at the scene.
Suspect Charged After Rushing Toward Acton
The suspect was identified as 38-year-old Patrick Havas. Ohio State Highway Patrol said he moved through the crowd toward Acton and was carrying two pistols and a Taser.
The Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office said two handguns and brass knuckles were recovered following his arrest. Authorities said none of the weapons were brandished or removed from their holsters.
Havas was booked into the Mahoning County Jail on charges of disorderly conduct and two counts of assault. The motive behind the incident remains unclear, and the investigation is continuing.
Several People Injured
The incident occurred at a tent hosted by the Mahoning County Democratic Party at the fair.
According to authorities, multiple fairgoers were knocked over as Havas attempted to reach Acton. Reports said two older adults were among those who fell during the incident.
Acton herself was not injured.
Acton Condemns Political Violence
Acton’s campaign said the candidate and her husband were grateful for the quick response from law enforcement and were praying for those injured.
Campaign spokesperson Addie Bullock said violence has no place in Ohio and condemned the hostility and vitriol surrounding political discourse.
Vivek Ramaswamy Condemns Attack
Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, Acton’s opponent in the November election, also condemned the incident.
His campaign described what happened as unacceptable and said candidates should be able to meet voters without fearing threats or violence.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, a Republican who is barred by term limits from seeking another term, also condemned the incident.
Ohio Governor Race Under Spotlight
The incident comes as Ohio’s gubernatorial race enters its final stretch before the November general election.
Acton, a former Ohio public health director who gained national recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic, won the Democratic nomination and is challenging Ramaswamy for the governorship.
The attack has added fresh concerns about security at political events and the safety of candidates campaigning in public spaces.
Investigation Continues
Law enforcement agencies, including the Ohio State Highway Patrol and Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office, are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities have not yet publicly established a motive for the attack