Police searching for suspects in shooting

LIMA - A Lima man was shot at his home Tuesday night during an apparent home invasion, police said Wednesday.

At least two individuals were involved at the time Dale Plaugher, 61, was shot inside his home at 548 S. Pine St. around 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, according to Lt. Jim Baker, of the Lima Police Department. Baker said based upon Plaugher's injuries it appears a shotgun was used.

Detectives worked throughout the night and well into Wednesday trying to develop additional information, Baker said.

"They've been working all night," Baker said. "They've got some suspects. They've got a lot more work to do on it."

The motive for the home invasion and shooting remain unclear, Baker said. Police were working to determine if Plaugher was specifically targeted.

Plaugher was initially taken to St. Rita's Medical Center. He was later transferred to Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, where his condition was unavailable Wednesday, a hospital spokeswoman said.

According to Baker, Plaugher was shot in the hand, in an apparent defensive position, as well as in the face.

"Hopefully by the end of the day there might be some more information," Baker said. "I do know they have some people they are actively looking for as we speak."

Two individuals have been questioned by police in regard to the incident, Baker said. It was unclear whether the individuals were released or placed under arrest.

"There was some kind of involvement," Baker said. "I just don't know what degree of involvement there was."