Suspect remains hospitalized

An early morning altercation on Saturday that caused the death of Anthony Ridley, 60, of Columbus, has resulted in a charge of first-degree murder for Josh Thompson, 31, of Wheelersburg, according to Ironton Municipal Court records.

At approximately 3:30 a.m. on Saturday, Ironton Police and Lawrence County EMS responded to a call at 717 1/2 Ashtabula St. Upon arrival, police discovered the fatally stabbed body of Ridley in the house.

Detective Joe Ross of the Ironton Police Department said statements taken at the scene allege Ridley and Thompson began arguing about drugs, after which time Thompson allegedly stabbed Ridley and Ridley allegedly shot Thompson. Ridley died from his wounds.

At approximately 3:44 a.m. 911 received a report that Thompson was at a residence on the 2800 block of South Ninth Street asking for help with a gunshot wound to his upper torso.

Thompson is in guarded custody at a local hospital where his condition is listed as stable.