The Kroger store on Parsons Avenue on Columbus’ South Side has reopened after being temporarily closed for a police investigation because a suspect is accused of biting off a security guard’s finger.
According to Columbus police dispatch, officers responded around 11:24 a.m. on Aug. 6 on a report of an assault on a security guard where a suspect was reported to have bitten all or a portion of one of the guard’s fingers off. Which appendage was involved was not available.
A scene was established inside and outside the store, according to police dispatchers.
The finger was recovered by first responders, and the victim was transported in stable condition to a hospital, where presumably an attempt would be made to reattach the appendage, if possible.
The suspect, who was not immediately identified, was arrested.
While the Kroger was initially closed for the investigation, a store employee reports it has reopened.
Kroger corporate headquarters did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
In 2024, Kroger announced that it was introducing security guards at six Columbus-area locations, The Dispatch previously reported. The stores with security guards also began requiring receipt checks and prohibiting shoppers from carrying large bags at some stores.
Cole Behrens covers K-12 education and school districts in central Ohio. Have a tip? Contact Cole at cbehrens@dispatch.com or connect with him on X at @Colebehr_report
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio Man bites finger off Kroger guard, prompts brief closure
