4 min read

Jan 16, 2025

Accused Shooter Faces $2 Million Bond; Details of Standoff and Alleged Motive Emerge in Court

Officers from several agencies prepare during a 4 hour long standoff with Gerald Frazier who allegedly shot two victims and had a third hostage. Photo from Facebook.

Jerold L. Frazier II, the 64-year-old man at the center of a violent shooting and hostage standoff in Galion, Ohio, on January 15, 2025, appeared in municipal court today. Facing charges of attempted murder, kidnapping, and other potential offenses, Frazier could see decades behind bars if convicted.

Update: Video of Jerold Frazier II Surrendering to Galion PD Emerges

We’ve obtained video footage of the dramatic surrender of Jerold Frazier II following a four-hour standoff with police in Galion.

In a bizarre moment, Frazier emerges from the house holding what appears to be a beer. Before surrendering, he chugs the drink and then gets on his knees to comply with officers.

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Video credit: Zack Hockensmith

A Courtroom Appearance Marked by Confusion

Frazier appeared visibly unwell during the hearing, described as haggard and disoriented. He made only one statement, claiming he didn’t understand why he was there. One source suggested that Frazier may be suffering from dementia or some related mental issue, which could explain his erratic behavior.

The court officially charged him with two counts of first-degree attempted murder and one count of second-degree kidnapping. Prosecutors also indicated that additional charges for firearm theft and possessing a weapon under disability are likely. If convicted of the current charges, Frazier faces a maximum sentence of 30 years, with additional time possible depending on the outcome of forthcoming charges.

Details of the Violent Incident

Court documents and statements from Prosecutor Crall reveal a chilling sequence of events. According to the allegations:

Frazier became intoxicated and lured victim Ariel Hecht into an area of his home. He pointed a gun at her head and attempted to fire twice, but the weapon’s safety was still engaged.
Realizing the error, Frazier pursued Hecht and her boyfriend, Makyle Swango, firing multiple shots as they fled.
Hecht suffered a gunshot wound to her leg, while Swango was hit in the ribs. Both victims leaped from a second-story window to escape, sustaining further injuries.
After the victims escaped, Frazier allegedly took another roommate, Michael Morris, hostage. He threatened to kill Morris if police entered the residence and claimed to have an AK-47, though investigators later determined he only possessed a .380 caliber handgun.

A standoff lasting nearly four hours ensued before Frazier ultimately surrendered, releasing Morris unharmed.

After his arrest, Frazier allegedly confessed to attempting to shoot and stab both Hecht and Swango. He also admitted that he intended to take his own life but was prevented by a second gun malfunction.

An officer aiming a sniper rifle at the 941 Walnut St. where Frazier allegedly held Morris hostage. Photo by Zack Hockensmith.

Potential Motive for the Attack

Prosecutor Crall suggested that the incident may have stemmed from a personal conflict involving a relationship between Frazier and Michael Morris. Frazier allegedly feared that Hecht would report him for a sex crime involving Morris, although authorities found no evidence to substantiate these claims.

A History of Legal Troubles

Frazier’s criminal history dates back over four decades. His record includes multiple OVIs (Operating a Vehicle Impaired), a 2006 domestic violence charge, and a fourth-degree felony assault on a peace officer in 2008, for which he served 17 months in prison. At the time of this incident, Frazier was already out on bond for another case, reportedly related to an OVI.

Bond Set at $2 Million

Citing concerns for public safety, Judge Shane Leuthold set Frazier’s bond at $2 million — double the prosecution’s initial request of $1 million. The judge highlighted the severity of the charges, Frazier’s violent criminal history, and the life-threatening nature of the incident.

Judge Leuthold remarked that the victims were “incredibly lucky” to survive, given the typically fatal potential of .380 caliber rounds. He also emphasized Frazier’s ongoing danger to the public, citing his erratic and violent behavior.

If Frazier posts bond, he will be prohibited from contacting the victims or possessing any firearms.

Next Steps in the Case

A preliminary hearing has been scheduled within the next 10 days. Frazier has been assigned defense attorney John Andrew Motter.

Law enforcement officials continue to investigate, with additional charges related to firearm theft and illegal possession expected to be filed.

Victim Updates

Both victims, Ariel Hecht and Makyle Swango, are recovering from their injuries. Michael Morris, who was taken hostage during the standoff, escaped unharmed.

Officers unloading equipment for possible forced entry. Photo by Zack Hockensmith.

Conclusion

As the investigation unfolds, the case against Gerald L. Frazier highlights a disturbing series of events, from attempted murder to a prolonged standoff with police. The Galion community has been reassured that the situation is under control, but questions remain about the motives and circumstances behind the attack.

Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.