Clermont County Prosecutor Clears Trooper in Fatal April 1st Shooting on I-275

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 14, 2025

Clermont County Prosecutor Clears Trooper involved in April 1st Shooting on I-275

Batavia, OH — On April 1, 2025, at approximately 10:20 p.m., both the Hamilton County and Clermont County Communications Centers received multiple reports of a vehicle traveling the wrong way on Interstate 275 endangering other motorists.

At approximately 11:15 p.m., Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper Andrew Fancher, while on patrol on I-275 in Union Township, Clermont County, observed a maroon SUV traveling northbound in the southbound lanes. The SUV, driven by Kelsey Hildal, posed an immediate threat to public safety. After obtaining authorization from his supervisor, Trooper Fancher made the decision to use his cruiser to make controlled physical contact with the SUV. He successfully pinned the SUV against a concrete barrier, safely bringing it to a stop.

Upon stopping the vehicle and before exiting his cruiser, Trooper Fancher observed the driver brandishing a handgun. Trooper Fancher issued multiple commands to Ms. Fancher to drop the weapon and show her hands. After initially complying with the trooper’s commands, Ms. Hildal picked up the firearm again. At that moment, Trooper Fancher discharged his service weapon, fatally wounding Ms. Hildal.

Law enforcement officers removed Ms. Hidal from her vehicle to administer life-saving measures. While removing Ms. Hidal, a Glock 43X 9mm semiautomatic pistol fell from her vehicle onto the roadway. The firearm was loaded, with one round in the chamber and seven in the magazine. A subsequent investigation by the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) confirmed the Glock was a functioning firearm. In addition, two Mossberg 500 shotguns—a 12 gauge and a 20 gauge—were located in the vehicle, all of which were legally owned by Ms. Hildal.

On April 28, 2025, BCI concluded its investigation and submitted its findings to the Clermont County Prosecutor’s Office. After a thorough review of the report, including relevant body-worn and cruiser camera footage, the Prosecutor’s Office has determined that Trooper Fancher’s actions were reasonable, appropriate, and necessary to protect both his own life and the lives of others. Accordingly, this matter is now closed and will not be presented to a Grand Jury. The Ohio State Highway Patrol was notified of this decision in writing on May 8, 2025.

“I want to extend my deepest appreciation to the dedicated law enforcement officers who risk their lives each day to ensure the safety of our communities. It should be clear to all that police officers have the right to protect their own lives as well as those of the public.” said Mark J. Tekulve, Clermont County Prosecutor.