MORROW COUNTY, Ohio — A man facing murder charges in connection with the shooting death of Deputy Daniel Sherrer last month has entered a not guilty plea. Brian Michael Wilson, 53, is set to return to court on August 25, where a trial date will be established.
Wilson was indicted on 14 felony counts, including two counts of aggravated murder, stemming from the incident on May 26. Authorities allege that he shot Sherrer while the deputy was responding to a domestic disturbance on County Road 26. Morrow County Prosecutor Andrew Wick has indicated that he will seek the death penalty if Wilson is convicted.
In the wake of the charges, a judge raised Wilson’s bond to $9 million from an initial $5 million. The court proceedings surrounding this case have attracted significant attention from the community, reflecting the gravity of the situation and its implications for local law enforcement.
Earlier this month, the indictment against Wilson detailed the various charges he faces, including felonious assault on a peace officer and attempted murder of a relative. The complete list underscores the severity of the alleged actions that led to Sherrer’s death. The charges also include domestic violence and unlawful discharge of a firearm.
Body camera footage from the scene revealed critical moments leading up to the shooting. Neighbors had warned Sherrer that Wilson was intoxicated and armed. The video shows the deputy approaching Wilson, who was seated on a deck, and attempting to de-escalate the situation. As Sherrer called out to Wilson, the suspect reacted aggressively, insisting that the deputy should not approach him.
In the tense moments captured on video, Wilson threatened Sherrer, warning him to leave if he wanted to see his family again. Less than a minute after this confrontation began, Sherrer was shot, leading to his untimely death.
Sherrer was laid to rest a week later, with many community members in attendance to honor his service. The four-year veteran of the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office left behind his parents and fiancée, leaving a profound impact on both his family and the community he served.
As the case continues to unfold, the local community is grappling with the tragic loss of Deputy Sherrer while awaiting the next steps in the legal process involving Wilson.