On Sunday, October 2, 2022, just after 10:00 a.m., IMPD Southwest District officers were dispatched to 524 South Holt Road, on a report of a domestic disturbance with a weapon. Upon arrival, officers learned an adult female was inside the residence being held against her will by her ex-boyfriend, who was armed with a gun. Officers requested the Special Weapons And Tactics (SWAT) team to respond to the location for an armed barricaded with a hostage.
SWAT and IMPD’s Hostage Negotiators arrived began speaking with the suspect. While SWAT members were outside the bedroom door, they heard a shot fired from inside the bedroom where the hostage and suspect were located. SWAT team members made entry into the bedroom. They engaged the suspect, and four SWAT members fired their department issued weapons, striking the suspect. Simultaneously, the adult female was rescued from the bedroom and taken to a safe location outside of the residence. A SWAT team medic, who was staged on scene entered the residence and medically evaluated the suspect. Unfortunately, the suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Detectives located a handgun and machete in the bedroom where the suspect was holding the hostage.
Multiple body-worn cameras were activated during this incident.
The Indianapolis-Marion County Forensic Services Agency responded to identify and collect potential forensic evidence. The Marion County Coroner’s Office (MCCO) will assist and determine the exact cause and manner of death. The MCCO will release the name of the decedent once a proper next-of-kin notification has been made.
Marion County Prosecutor’s Office (MCPO) responded to the scene to assist in the investigation.
No officers or uninvolved citizens were injured during this incident. Detectives are confident there is no ongoing threat to the community.
The IMPD Critical Incident Response Team responded to the scene to conduct the criminal investigation. The Indianapolis-Marion County Forensic Services Agency is assisting with this investigation.
A separate administrative investigation is being conducted by IMPD Internal Affairs. The officers who fired their guns have been placed on administrative leave as is standard procedure in an officer involved shooting investigation.
The civilian-majority Use of Force Review Board will conduct a mandatory hearing for any attempted use of deadly force against a person. This occurs after the conclusion of the criminal process.
The Police Officer Support Team (POST) responded to provide peer support for officers. The IMPD Chaplain’s Office and Victims Assistance Unit responded to assist with those involved and the homicide victim’s family.
Detectives continue to canvass the area for witnesses and other evidence. Anyone with information is asked to call. Detective Sergeant Scott Stauffer at the homicide office by calling 317-327-3475. Alternatively, anyone with information can call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 317-262-TIPS.
