A 47-year-old Cleveland man, Ronald J. Loftis, allegedly shot a woman in the face during a carjacking attempt on Friday morning, January 2, 2026, as her 1-year-old son sat inside the vehicle on the 7900 block of Madison Avenue. Loftis reportedly demanded money, wrestled for her keys, and fired the gun accidentally during the struggle before throwing the child into the snow and fleeing in the stolen car.
Victim and Child Safety
The woman sustained a facial gunshot wound but remains in stable condition, while the unharmed toddler was rescued after being ejected from the vehicle. Police recovered the car shortly after and identified Loftis through further investigation.
Arrest and Charges
Officers arrested Loftis on Saturday at a home on Cleveland’s east side, charging him with attempted murder and aggravated battery. He was booked into Cuyahoga County Jail, set a $500,000 bond during Monday’s court appearance, and faces a next hearing on January 13.
Police Statement
Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy A. Todd described the act as a “senseless and violent crime” endangering lives, praising officers’ swift work in apprehending the suspect and expressing support for the victim’s recovery.
