Suspect charged with murder in Sandusky County turnpike plaza stabbing

CLYDE and FREMONT – Thomas Conner, 51, of Beloit, WI, has been charged with murder (F1) for allegedly stabbing two individuals, killing one, at the Erie Islands Service Plaza on the Ohio Turnpike in Sandusky County Tuesday evening.

Connor allegedly stabbed Alan Austin, 53, of Delavan, WI, and David Diederich, 66, of La Porte, IN. Diederich died at the scene. Austin was hospitalized following the incident and has been released.

Following the attack, a standoff occurred between Connor and Sandusky County Sheriff’s Deputy Evan Ely, 39. During the standoff Ely allegedly told Conner to drop his knife. Connor allegedly refused to drop the knife and began to charge at the deputy. Deputy Ely allegedly began to try to use less lethal munitions on the suspect, but was unsuccessful. Deputy Ely allegedly then shot the suspect.

A video that a witness took of the standoff and shooting has been released by the Sandusky County Sheriff’s Office. It can be viewed below.

Connor is currently hospitalized from the shooting. Following his release from the hospital, Conner will be transported to the Sandusky County Jail and will be held without bond.