In Deepest, Darkest Ohio

No charges brought against Columbus Police officer in fatal shooting of Ma'Khia Bryant

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — A Columbus Police officer who shot and killed 16-year-old Ma'Khia Bryant in April 2021, will not be charged.

The Fraternal Order of Police said a grand jury declined to bring charges against Officer Nicholas Reardon.

"The jury decided to return a no bill which means they did not proceed with any criminal charges against officer Reardon and found no criminal act," FOP President Jeff Simpson said. "That is pleasing to hear. It’s always sad when there is a loss of life, however, the actions of the people at scene, caused him to take action that saved lives and he is trained very well. He did his job, and it is a good outcome."

Michelle Martin, an attorney for the family of Ma'Khia Bryant, provided the following statement to ABC 6:

"Ma'Khia Bryant's family is disappointed that a Franklin County grand jury declined to indict the officer who shot and killed her last year. Ma'Khia's family has long wondered why this officer opted for lethal force even though there should have been other non-deadly options available to deal with this situation. We believe that the tragedy that ultimately resulted in Ma'Khia's death started long before she was shot and killed by a Columbus police officer. There must be full-scale changes made to Ohio's foster care system to ensure that this doesn't happen to another child. We need to work tirelessly to protect those who are most vulnerable in our society. Ohio's foster care system is failing our children and we cannot stand by and allow this to continue. As the one-year anniversary of Ma'Khia's death approaches, her family is resolute in their fight for justice on her behalf." (read more)