On the evening of May 26, 2025, a quiet Memorial Day in Marengo, Ohio, was shattered by a tragic incident that left a community grieving and a sheriff’s office in mourning. Deputy Daniel Sherel, a 31-year-old officer with the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office, was fatally shot while responding to a domestic disturbance call in a rural neighborhood. The loss of this young deputy, described by colleagues as dedicated and courageous, has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community of Morrow County, located approximately 40 miles north of Columbus. Sheriff John L. Hinton, visibly emotional during a press conference on Tuesday morning, confirmed the deputy’s identity and shared the profound sorrow felt by the department. “There are no words to express the pain being felt by our office today,” Hinton said, his voice heavy with grief.
The incident unfolded in the 100 block of County Road 26, a narrow, residential street lined with single-story homes and surrounded by the agricultural landscape that defines much of Morrow County. Around 7 p.m., the sheriff’s office received a call reporting a domestic situation at a residence in this small village of fewer than 300 residents. Deputy Sherel, known for his commitment to serving the community, was dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, he encountered a volatile situation that rapidly escalated into an armed confrontation. Gunfire erupted, though the exact circumstances leading to the exchange remain under investigation. Sherel was struck by bullets and, despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, succumbed to his injuries. The suspect, whose identity has not been released, was also shot during the altercation and was transported to a medical facility in serious condition.
The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, has taken the lead in examining the incident to ensure a thorough and impartial analysis. Authorities have not yet disclosed what sparked the domestic dispute or whether others were present at the scene. The investigation is ongoing, and officials are urging anyone with information to contact the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 740-833-2830 or email DCSODetectives@co.delaware.oh.us. The lack of clarity about the events leading up to the shooting has left residents searching for answers, but the focus in Marengo remains on honoring the fallen deputy.
Daniel Sherel was more than just a badge to those who knew him. At 31, he was a young officer with a promising career, respected for his professionalism and compassion. Colleagues described him as someone who approached every call with a calm demeanor and a genuine desire to help. His death marks a devastating blow to the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office, a department that serves a largely rural region where such acts of violence are rare. The community, known for its close connections and annual traditions like Memorial Day gatherings, has been left reeling. Social media platforms have become a space for residents and fellow officers to share condolences, with many expressing disbelief that such a tragedy could occur in their small village.
In the hours following the shooting, messages of support poured in from across Ohio. Neighboring law enforcement agencies, including the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, issued statements of solidarity, pledging to support their colleagues through this loss. Plans for a formal tribute to Deputy Sherel are underway, with expectations of a funeral procession that will draw officers from across the state. Community members have already begun discussing ways to honor his memory, from vigils to donations for his family. The outpouring of grief reflects the deep impact Sherel had in his short time as a deputy.
This tragedy underscores the dangers law enforcement officers face, even in seemingly routine calls. Domestic disturbance responses are among the most unpredictable and volatile situations officers encounter, often requiring split-second decisions in high-stress environments. For Morrow County, the loss of Deputy Sherel is a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve. As the investigation continues, the community waits for answers, but for now, they are united in mourning a young man who gave his life in the line of duty. His legacy, though cut short, will endure in the hearts of those he served.
