An incident at the Canfield Fair in Ohio on Sunday involved a suspected armed assailant disrupting a campaign event for Amy Acton, a Democratic candidate for Ohio governor. Reports and voting records indicate that the suspect, Patrick Havas, 38, is a registered Republican. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Havas forcefully moved through the crowd toward Acton, knocking over several attendees. He was equipped with a Taser and two pistols.
Havas is currently detained at the Mahoning County Jail, facing charges of disorderly conduct and assault. The confrontation occurred inside the Mahoning County Democrat Party tent at one of Ohio’s prominent fairs. Havas, a resident of Canfield, Ohio, allegedly pushed his way through attendees while filming the event with his cell phone, as reported by the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office.
Havas’s background includes being a registered Republican and a licensed nurse, as confirmed by multiple reports. His last recorded vote was in 2024. Law enforcement agencies, including Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office, have been contacted by Newsweek for further information.
Details of the Canfield Fair Incident
The Ohio State Highway Patrol officers assigned to Acton’s security detail managed to apprehend Havas. Mahoning County Sheriff Jerry Greene informed CBS News about Havas’s actions, which resulted in two elderly individuals on mobility scooters being knocked to the ground. The sheriff’s office reported that Havas possessed two pistols and brass knuckles, although no weapons were drawn during the event.
The sheriff’s department will proceed with the investigation and plans to consult with the County Prosecutor regarding further charges. The state patrol will evaluate any potential threats posed by the incident.
Addie Bullock, communications director for Acton’s campaign, praised the quick response by law enforcement. She expressed relief for their decisive action and offered prayers for those injured. Bullock emphasized Dr. Acton’s commitment to challenging divisiveness and hostility.
This event is still under review, and further updates are expected.