Authorities are investigating a fatal shooting in Atwater Township after a woman was found dead inside her home Tuesday morning, triggering a regional search for the suspected gunman and precautionary school lockdowns.
According to local news reports, deputies with the Portage County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence on State Route 183 shortly after 8 a.m. Tuesday following a report that a man allegedly involved in a long-running stalking situation had appeared at the woman’s front door.
The man had reportedly left before deputies arrived. Approximately 70 minutes later, authorities received another call involving the residence. A person who arrived at the home discovered the woman suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators identified the victim as Alice Tully. Authorities have not publicly detailed every aspect of the circumstances leading to the shooting, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Suspect Arrested After Multi-County Search
Following the discovery, law enforcement agencies launched a search for the suspected shooter. Investigators circulated information about the suspect and worked with officers in surrounding counties to locate the vehicle believed to be involved.
The search ended in Guernsey County, where state troopers located the vehicle traveling south on Interstate 77 and conducted a traffic stop. The suspect was taken into custody without incident.
Authorities identified the suspect as Travis Lovett, 21, of Seminole, Florida. He was subsequently returned to Portage County and jailed on an aggravated murder charge, according to local reporting.
The allegations have not been adjudicated in court.
Schools Placed on Precautionary Lockdown
As the search unfolded, two Portage County school districts implemented precautionary soft lockdowns while authorities worked to locate the suspect.
The measures were intended to help protect students and staff while law enforcement agencies coordinated their response. The reported arrest brought the immediate search to an end.
Investigation Continues
Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death, including the events preceding the shooting and the relationship between the victim and the suspect.
The case has left the Atwater Township community confronting the loss of a resident as authorities work to establish a complete account of what happened.
Officials have not publicly released every detail of the investigation. Further information may become available as court proceedings advance and law enforcement agencies provide additional updates.
The investigation remains active, and the suspect is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
