Cops name suspect wanted for shooting Ellie Richardson, young mom working at Nick Lachey’s bar

Authorities in Ohio are asking for the public’s help in locating a man suspected of shooting a woman in the face late last month.

As CrimeOnline previously reported, police believe 27-year-old Elizabeth Richardson was walking near her employer — a Cincinnati bar owned by pop star Nick Lachey — when a man drove up in a white van and yelled at her.

A verbal altercation allegedly ensued, ending when the driver opened fire on Richardson.

Reports indicate the shooter drove away from the scene. Police found his vehicle days later.

According to a tweet posted Thursday by the Cincinnati Police Department, investigators have identified Lavoris Hightower as a suspect.

“Hightower has been indicted for Attempted Murder, Felonious Assault, Weapons Under Disability & Tampering With Evidence,” the agency wrote.

Police are asking for anyone with information about his whereabouts to dial 911, but they urge civilians to exercise caution if they encounter him.

“DO NOT APPROACH,” the department’s tweet read.

Those with non-emergency tips regarding the case are asked to call 514-352-3040.

Lachey was instrumental in attracting media attention to the crime, linking to a post about Richardson in a widely circulated tweet.

The mother of a 3-year-old boy was recently engaged to be married. After the shooting, she was hospitalized with extensive injuries to her face and jaw.

A prosecutor in the case stressed the importance of sending a message to the person responsible for this crime, according to WCPO.

“Cincinnati has worked very hard to improve the area where the shooting occurred,” Joe Deters said.

He said the shooting “has the potential of ruining years of progress,” adding that Hightower “needs to go to jail for a very long time.”

[Featured image: Lavoris Hightower/Elizabeth Richardson: Cincinnati Police Department]