Controversial Elyria Police Raid Results in Alleged Injuries to Toddler

Mother Claims Flash-Bangs Caused Burns and Lung Irritation to Her Son; Police Deny Allegations

Elyria, Ohio police raided a home on Parmely Avenue on January 10, 2024, deploying flash-bangs and causing damage to the property. The home was occupied by Courtney Price and her 17-month-old son, Waylon, who was on a ventilator due to pre-existing medical conditions.
Price alleges that the flash-bangs caused injuries to her son, including burns and chemical pneumonitis, a form of lung irritation. She also claims that the police targeted the wrong house, as the suspect they were looking for no longer lived there.
The Elyria Police Department has disputed these claims, stating that the warrant was executed at the correct address and that any allegations of the child being exposed to chemical agents or negligence are untrue. They also stated that the child did not sustain any visible injuries during the raid.
Elyria Mayor Kevin A. Brubaker has ordered a review of the incident and requested an external investigation into how the warrant was obtained. Body camera footage from the raid has been released, showing the deployment of flash-bangs and the subsequent entry into the home.
Price has launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover medical expenses for her son. The family is also reportedly planning to take legal action against the police department.