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Man accused of attacking homeless with fireworks in Cincinnati for 'entertainment'

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Thursday, October 2nd 2025 at 11:23 GMT by Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
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Cincinnati Man Arrested After Fireworks Attack on Homeless Camp Near Abandoned Bank Building

A dramatic and violent incident unfolded last Friday night in the Colerain Avenue area of Cincinnati, where a local resident was arrested for assaulting homeless people with fireworks at a makeshift camp near an abandoned bank building. The suspect, who has not yet been named publicly, is facing a battery charge as well as possession of a weapon and a misdemeanor fireworks violation. Prosecutor Connie Pillich, who is handling the case, said the city is determined to protect the safety of both the homeless population and the broader community.

The Incident

At approximately 10:15 p.m. on Saturday, a group of around a dozen homeless individuals had taken up residence in the abandoned bank building on Colerain Avenue—a structure that has long been a refuge for the city’s most vulnerable. The building, which had been vacant for years, had become a hub for a local “Washington Entertainment Camp,” a nickname that refers to a volunteer group that once tried to provide food and shelter for the homeless in the area.

The victimized camp, according to the police’s preliminary report, was “intentionally targeted” by the suspect, who approached the group with several small fireworks. Witnesses said the suspect ignited the fireworks, sending bright sparks and loud bangs into the night air. One man was struck on the head by a flying sparkler, and several others reported being thrown against the walls of the abandoned bank building as the fireworks exploded. No serious injuries were reported, but the assault was described as “aggressive” and “unprovoked.” A 22‑year‑old man sustained a superficial cut on his forehead from a fragment of a firework, while several others suffered bruises and minor burns.

“It was shocking to see the kind of violence being thrown at these people,” said a volunteer from the Washington Entertainment Camp. “They were there for basic help and comfort, and the attacker seemed to have done that just for entertainment.”

Arrest and Charges

Cincinnati Police Department officers arrived within minutes after the first 911 call. The suspect was apprehended at the scene after a confrontation in which he attempted to flee. Officers seized a collection of fireworks—both standard consumer sparklers and an illegal “red‑flash” device, which is banned in the state—and a small hand‑held device that was described as a “weapon” by the arresting officer.

In a statement released by the department, Officer Marcus Lee said, “The suspect’s behavior was not only illegal but also endangering to the lives of others. We took swift action to prevent further harm.”

Prosecutor Connie Pillich, whose office is responsible for all criminal prosecutions in Hamilton County, confirmed that the suspect has been charged with first‑degree battery and possession of a weapon. She added that the case will proceed to arraignment on Monday and that the city will be seeking a protective order against the suspect should he be released on bail. “We are committed to safeguarding the community, particularly those who are already vulnerable,” Pillich said.

Community Response

The attack sparked immediate concern among local residents, who have long grappled with the visibility of homelessness in downtown Cincinnati. The incident also drew criticism of the city’s handling of the abandoned bank building, a structure that has remained unused for decades.

A city councilwoman who attended a community meeting on Sunday said the council “needs to address the fact that these people are living in a building that is essentially a relic of the past.” She called for a partnership with a nonprofit that had once attempted to provide support to the homeless camp, arguing that the city must take responsibility for ensuring safe shelters for all residents.

The Washington Entertainment Camp, which was co‑run by volunteers from the nonprofit “Hands & Hearts,” also expressed its disappointment with the incident. “We never imagined this would happen,” said camp leader Maria Torres. “We are committed to continuing our work, but we will need the city to provide secure housing options, not a dangerous environment.”

Legal Context

Fireworks are legal in Ohio for consumers, but the state prohibits the sale and use of “red‑flash” fireworks and other specialty devices. According to the Ohio Revised Code, possession of these items without a permit is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The suspect’s possession of the illegal fireworks likely will be part of the prosecution’s argument for a harsher sentence.

Prosecutor Pillich cited the state’s “protective approach to public safety” as the foundation of the case. “The law is clear that any violent assault—especially when it involves a weapon—will not be tolerated,” she said. “This case sends a strong message that we are serious about protecting the vulnerable.”

Next Steps

The suspect’s arraignment is scheduled for Monday evening, and the court will set bail if he is allowed to leave custody. If the case goes to trial, the city will likely request a jury verdict that reflects the seriousness of the alleged assault and the risk posed to the homeless camp. In addition, the city is expected to file a civil complaint for civil damages, citing the emotional and physical harm caused to the victims.

The incident has renewed debate over the city’s strategy for dealing with homelessness, particularly in relation to abandoned properties. While the Washington Entertainment Camp had provided a basic safety net for its residents, the attack highlighted the limitations of such volunteer efforts when faced with violent criminal acts.

City officials, nonprofits, and community groups are now convening to address the issue. One such meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, will bring together representatives from the Cincinnati Housing Authority, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, and the nonprofit “Hands & Hearts.” They will discuss long‑term solutions, including the potential repurposing of the abandoned bank building for a temporary shelter, and how to create a safer environment for the city’s homeless residents.

Conclusion

The shooting of a homeless camp by a local man using fireworks is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges that Cincinnati faces when it comes to public safety and the welfare of its most vulnerable citizens. While the suspect’s arrest is a first step toward justice, the broader question remains: How can the city provide adequate, safe, and permanent housing for those who are already on the margins of society?

With the arraignment looming, the community’s focus will shift to the legal proceedings and the possibility of an increased partnership between local law enforcement, city officials, and nonprofit organizations. As the city grapples with these complex issues, the case underscores the importance of a coordinated, compassionate approach that balances the right to safety with the need for humanitarian assistance.