Lawmakers and officials across Ohio are remembering Canton Police Officer Dave Wolgamott, who died in a vehicle crash on Monday, Nov. 11.
Attorney General Dave Yost said Wolgamott “was on his way to serve his community – a duty he faithfully performed for nearly two decades in Canton – when his life was tragically cut short,” offering condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.
The collision occurred shortly before 7 a.m., according to the Canton Police Department, which shared information with local outlets WOIO-TV, WBKN-TV and Spectrum 1 News. Wolgamott was transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Authorities have not released further details about the incident, telling Spectrum 1 News that additional information will be withheld out of respect for the officer’s family. The investigation remains ongoing.
“It is a very sad day for all of us at Canton PD. Dave will be sorely missed,” Lt. Dennis Garren said in a statement to Spectrum 1 News.
Wolgamott served with the Canton Police Department for 19 years, most recently assigned to the patrol division and jail operations. His obituary notes that he previously served in the U.S. Army, including deployment in Bosnia, and continued his service for years in the Army National Guard before becoming a police officer. Outside of work, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and attending his children’s school activities.
Ohio Rep. Emilia Sykes honored him in a statement, saying he “exemplified courage, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to the Canton community” throughout his career. “My thoughts are with his family, loved ones, and fellow officers during this difficult time,” she said. “We honor Officer Wolgamott’s legacy and the countless ways he made Canton safer and stronger.”
FBI Cleveland also shared a tribute on X, writing, “FBI Cleveland and the FBI Canton Resident Agency sends our prayers and condolences to Canton Police Officer Dave Wolgamott’s family, friends, and colleagues he leaves behind. Rest in peace.”
