Coronavirus: Protesters try to open Statehouse window

A large group of protesters gathered outside the Statehouse, with some circling the building with signs and flags demanding that Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine reopen the state.

>> Coronavirus: Ohio will continue to reopen during stay safe order

Demonstrators who oppose the stay at home order included men donned in camouflage carrying assault-style rifles as well as children playing with sidewalk chalk, bubbles, kites and Frisbees on the lawn.

Tense moment right before @GovMikeDeWine briefing. Protesters opened the windows and started yelling into the basement! Troopers lined a hallway decked out in riot gear. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/Bh5FnqLQfq
— Tara Morgan (@tarawsyx6) May 1, 2020

>> Coronavirus: Complete Coverage

At one point protesters started opening a first floor window on the west side of the Statehouse, but Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers quickly stopped it.

Other troopers were in full riot gear, but they didn’t go onto the lawn.

>> What's the biggest thing businesses need right now to survive? Cash

In Other News

Dayton Chapter NAACP’s longest-serving president re-elected; awards...

Dayton medical equipment manufacturer lays off 86 employees

Beavercreek Kroger gas station remains closed after truck fire

Xenia extends moratorium on emergency room facilities amid proposed...

Dayton holiday tree arrives at Courthouse Square

About the Author

Laura A. Bischoff

Laura Bischoff is our Columbus bureau reporter and covers politics and state government. She keeps a close eye on elected leaders, public employees and taxpayer money. Bischoff tries to write stories that inform voters, hold leaders accountable and strengthen democracy.