Politics 16 sources · over 3 days Latest coverage 7 Sept 2026, 3:55 am UTC

Attacker Identified, Two Injured in Amy Acton Campaign Incident

Amy Acton was unharmed after an armed man, Patrick Havas, attacked her campaign event, injuring two others.

By Tomas Ferreira · First published 7 Sept 2026

In brief

  1. Amy Acton, Democratic candidate for Ohio governor, was attacked by Patrick Havas during a campaign event at the Canfield Fair.
  2. The assailant was armed with two pistols, a stun gun, and brass knuckles when he lunged at Acton.
  3. Amy Acton was not injured, but two other people were hurt in the incident and are receiving care.
  4. Law enforcement quickly arrested Patrick Havas at the scene and launched an ongoing investigation into his motives.
  5. The campaign is reviewing security protocols for future events as authorities continue their investigation.
Attacker Identified, Two Injured in Amy Acton Campaign Incident
Source: NBC News

Timeline · 6 moments

6 moments Open the full timeline →

Amy Acton attends campaign event at Canfield Fair

NBC News ↗

Armed individual lunges at Acton, causing injuries

ABC Top Stories ↗

Suspect arrested by police following attack at fair

NYT Politics ↗

Acton's campaign thanks law enforcement for quick response

The Daily Beast Latest Articles ↗

Suspect Patrick Havas identified, two bystanders injured

New York Post ↗

Attacker found carrying pistols, stun gun, brass knuckles

Expressen ↗

Update 7 Sept 2026, 3:55 am UTC

The assailant has been identified as Patrick Havas. Amy Acton was not injured, but two other people were hurt during the incident. The attacker was armed with two pistols, a stun gun, and brass knuckles. The investigation and review of campaign security are ongoing.

How it started

Amy Acton, a Democrat running for Ohio governor, was attending a campaign event at the annual Canfield Fair in Mahoning County. The fair is a major gathering in the region, drawing large crowds and political candidates alike. The event was intended as a routine campaign stop to connect with voters and discuss her platform.

Campaign events like these are often public, making them accessible but also posing security challenges. Acton's presence at the fair was publicized in advance, and her team was prepared for a typical day of outreach.

How it unfolded

On September 6, 2026, during Acton's appearance at the Canfield Fair, an armed individual confronted her. According to reports from multiple outlets, the assailant lunged at Acton, triggering panic and chaos among attendees.

Several people were injured in the incident, though the exact number and severity of injuries have not been detailed in initial reports. Law enforcement responded quickly, managing to subdue and arrest the assailant at the scene. Authorities have not yet released the suspect's identity or provided information about the weapon involved.

Campaign officials later expressed gratitude for the swift action taken by police and first responders. They also emphasized the need to address increasing tensions and security risks at public political events.

The attack has brought renewed attention to the safety of candidates and the divisive atmosphere surrounding high-profile campaigns in Ohio and across the country.

Where it stands

As of now, Amy Acton is safe, and the injured individuals are receiving medical care. The suspect remains in custody while authorities continue their investigation into the motive and circumstances of the attack.

The campaign is reviewing its security protocols for upcoming events. The broader political community in Ohio is watching closely as the investigation develops and more details emerge.

What to watch

Key questions remain about the assailant's motive and whether the attack was politically motivated. The ongoing investigation will likely provide more clarity in the coming days. Security at public campaign events will also be a major concern as the election season continues.

Written from 16 outlets' coverage of this story. Every timeline entry links to the original report.

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