Suspect Found Dead, Another in Custody After Shots Fired at Indiana State Police Trooper
A suspect was found dead and another person was taken into custody after an Indiana State Police trooper came under gunfire Friday afternoon in rural LaPorte County, authorities said.
The incident began at approximately 3:15 p.m. when an Indiana State Police trooper responded to County Road 125 East, south of County Road 900 North, following a report of two people acting suspiciously.
Trooper Fired Upon During Traffic Encounter
According to Indiana State Police, the trooper located a male and female and began speaking with them. During the interaction, the trooper asked the man for identification.
Police said the trooper was seated inside the patrol vehicle while the two individuals remained outside when the man allegedly pulled a firearm from his waistband.
The trooper immediately accelerated away from the area, but police said the male suspect fired at the patrol vehicle, striking it twice.
The trooper was not injured in the shooting.
Suspects Flee Into Woods
Following the gunfire, both individuals reportedly fled into a wooded area, prompting authorities to launch a search for the male suspect, who was considered armed and dangerous.
The female suspect eventually emerged from the woods and surrendered to police.
Authorities continued searching for the male suspect as law enforcement agencies worked to secure the area.
Male Suspect Found Dead
At approximately 7:40 p.m., an Indiana State Police SWAT team entered a residence in the 8300 block of North 125 East.
Inside, officers discovered the male suspect dead. Police said he appeared to have suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound, with a handgun found near his body.
His identity was not immediately released pending further investigation and notification procedures.
Woman Taken Into Custody
A 20-year-old woman from Elkhart, Indiana, was taken into custody following the incident.
Indiana State Police said charges against the woman are pending. Authorities have not yet released additional information about the specific allegations she may face.
Police also confirmed that there is no longer any danger to the public related to the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.
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