CANFIELD, Ohio — The man accused of lunging at Ohio Democratic gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton during a campaign stop at the Canfield Fair has been identified as 38-year-old Patrick Havas of Canfield, who was carrying two guns and a set of brass knuckles at the time of his arrest, according to authorities and multiple local outlets.
What happened at the fair
Acton was addressing a crowd inside the Mahoning County Democratic Party tent around 2:30 p.m. Sunday when Havas walked in and began filming her on his cellphone, according to reporting on the incident. He then pushed through the crowd toward Acton, knocking at least two people to the ground in the process. Members of Acton’s security detail, which included Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers, intervened and restrained him until Canfield police arrived and made the arrest. Acton herself was not injured; the people Havas pushed past were hurt in the scramble, though the severity of their injuries has not been detailed in public reporting.
Weapons recovered, not used
Officers recovered two firearms and a set of brass knuckles from Havas following his arrest. Authorities have said he did not brandish or use any of the weapons during the incident itself.
Charges and background
Havas was booked into the Mahoning County Jail on two counts of assault and one count of disorderly conduct. Voter registration records show he is a registered Republican, and court records show a criminal history that includes three prior theft charges along with traffic offenses. It remains unclear whether additional charges will be filed as the investigation continues.
Reaction
The Acton campaign said in a statement: “While attending the Canfield Fair, an armed individual lunged at Dr. Acton, injuring multiple people. Dr. Acton and Eric are grateful for the swift and decisive action of law enforcement and are praying for the recovery of those injured. This kind of violence has no place in Ohio.” Acton’s Republican opponent in the governor’s race, Vivek Ramaswamy, also condemned the incident, saying candidates “should be able to meet with voters without having to worry about threats or violence.”
Havas has been charged but not convicted. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Sources: 13abc, Cleveland 19 News, KTVU, NOTUS, Vindy.com.
