The Stark County Sheriff’s Office has identified the man who died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound following a harrowing shooting incident in Plain Township on Wednesday afternoon. Authorities confirmed that the suspected shooter was 35-year-old Rodney Boley of Canton, whose violent actions have left the community shaken and a woman fighting to recover from multiple gunshot wounds.
Deputies were dispatched to an apartment complex in the 4100 block of Orchard Dale Drive NW around 4:30 p.m. after receiving reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, law enforcement officers discovered Boley deceased inside the apartment from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Inside the home, officers also found evidence of a struggle and multiple rounds fired. The female victim, who managed to flee the apartment despite being seriously wounded, was quickly located and transported to Aultman Hospital. Authorities reported Thursday that she is now in stable condition after undergoing emergency treatment.
Tragically, a child was also present during the shooting. Deputies say the child managed to escape unharmed, finding safety in a neighboring apartment as the violence unfolded. The child has since been reunited with family members, according to officials.
The Stark County Metro Task Force, Canton Regional SWAT, FBI, Plain Township Fire Department, and the Stark County Coroner’s Office all responded to the scene and assisted in the investigation. The area surrounding the apartment complex was temporarily secured as tactical teams ensured the safety of residents and collected evidence.
Sheriff’s deputies have not yet released further details about the relationship between Boley and the victim, or what may have led to the violent confrontation. Investigators are working to determine the motive behind the shooting and what events preceded the deadly encounter.
Neighbors described the scene as chaotic and deeply unsettling, with one resident reporting hearing “multiple loud pops” followed by sirens and police rushing to the complex. The incident has left many residents in Plain Township deeply disturbed by the violence that occurred in their typically quiet neighborhood.
Authorities emphasized that this appears to be an isolated domestic-related incident, and there is no ongoing threat to the public. However, the emotional toll on the community—and especially on the young child who witnessed the tragedy—remains immeasurable.
The Stark County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate and encourages anyone with additional information about the case to contact them directly at 330-430-3800 or through the Anonymous Crime Tip Line at 330-451-3937.
This heartbreaking case serves as another stark reminder of the devastating toll of domestic violence and gun-related tragedies. Support and counseling resources are being made available for those affected.
If you or someone you know is in danger or experiencing domestic violence, please reach out for help:
National Domestic Violence Hotline — 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Text “START” to 88788
