WYRZ.org 98.9 WYRZ – The Voice of Hendricks County
Just before 2 p.m., On December 13, 2017, SWAT officers with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department were in the process of serving a narcotics search warrant in the 2100 block of Spann Ave, when they were fired upon.
The suspect, later identified as 39-year-old Christopher Johnson, was inside the target residence and fired upon SWAT officers as they made entry, striking one officer in the arm. SWAT officers returned fire and injuring Johnson. EMS personnel responded and transported the officer in good condition and Johnson listed in critical condition to a local area hospital. Other subjects that were inside the residence were detained as a part of the ongoing investigation. No one else was injured during this incident.
“This incident serves as a stark reminder of the violence often directed toward law enforcement officers. We stand with our community with disappointment and frustration of those who choose violence over compliance and are working hard together to change that mindset.” Stated Chief Bryan Roach, “We are grateful our officers involved are safe and going home tonight and we will address the trauma caused by this incident internally. We hope those close to the accused receive the appropriate assistance with any trauma he may have caused them.”
The involved officer, a 11-year veteran of the IMPD, has been released from the hospital but will have follow up appointments to ensure proper healing. Johnson was arrested for the following charges; attempted murder and serious violent felon-in-possession of a firearm. He remains in critical but stable condition.
Investigators are in the process of taking formal statements from all known witnesses. If additional witnesses exist that have not yet talked with investigators, we urge them to call the IMPD Homicide Office at 317.327.3475
The Indianapolis-Marion County Forensic Services Agency responded to the scene to collect forensic evidence. The shooting is being investigated by IMPD’s CIRT. A separate and independent internal investigation will be conducted, as is standard procedure in an officer-involved shooting, by IMPD’s Internal Affairs Unit to ensure compliance with departmental policy. The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office is involved and will be consulted throughout the investigative process. The involved officers will be placed on Administrative Leave to ensure they receive coping services, and will be available to criminal and administrative investigators.
IMPD’s wellness program will be available to address any concerns the involved officer may have.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at (317)262-TIPS (8477). All tips given via Crime Stoppers are considered anonymous.
