Dayton, Ohio – A Dayton man who had been on the run for years is now facing serious federal charges after a tense confrontation with law enforcement that ended with gunfire and a negotiated surrender.
Terrence Gay, 41, had been a fugitive since September 2021 after failing to report to begin serving a federal prison sentence tied to fentanyl-related crimes. For nearly five years, authorities were unable to locate him until new information surfaced in March 2026 that led officers to his residence in Dayton.
Fugitive search turns into armed standoff
According to court documents, the Southern District of Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team, known as SOFAST, received updated intelligence on Gay’s location on March 19. Investigators began watching his residence closely, preparing to move in once they confirmed his presence.
On March 23, law enforcement surrounded the home and clearly announced who they were and why they were there. Officers attempted to get Gay to come out peacefully, but the situation quickly escalated.
Authorities say Gay refused to follow commands and instead opened fire, allegedly shooting about 12 rounds toward officers. During the gunfire, an unmarked Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office vehicle was struck. Deputies were positioned directly behind that vehicle at the time, increasing the danger of the situation and the risk of serious injury or worse.
The incident prompted a large response, with both Dayton Police SWAT and Montgomery County SWAT teams arriving to assist. The scene remained tense as officers worked to contain the situation and prevent further violence.
Negotiated surrender and serious charges
While the standoff continued, communication efforts began to take shape. United States Marshals received a call from Gay’s attorney, which led to a three-way conversation aimed at resolving the situation without further harm. Through that discussion, arrangements were made for Gay to surrender peacefully.
Following his arrest, Gay was charged with multiple serious federal offenses. These include assaulting federal officers with a deadly weapon, attempted murder of a federal officer, discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, and illegally possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon.
His criminal history extends beyond the current case. In addition to prior convictions in Missouri, Gay has also been convicted in Montgomery County for aggravated robbery, theft, and kidnapping. These past offenses add further weight to the charges now facing him.
The case was announced by several federal and local officials, including United States Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II for the Southern District of Ohio, FBI Cincinnati Division Special Agent in Charge Jason Cromartie, United States Marshal Michael D. Black, Montgomery County Sheriff Rob Streck, and Dayton Police Chief Kamran Afzal. Assistant United States Attorney Erica D. Lunderman is handling the prosecution.
Officials also noted that a criminal complaint contains allegations, and Gay is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
The incident highlights the risks law enforcement officers face when attempting to capture fugitives, especially those with violent histories, and underscores the importance of coordinated efforts between agencies in bringing suspects into custody safely.
