Suspect Fatally Shot After Reaching for Object While Fleeing
An Indianapolis police officer fatally shot a suspect on Tuesday following a reported armed carjacking on the city’s east side.
Carjacking Reported, Officer Locates Suspect
Shortly before 9 am, officers with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department responded to a call about a carjacking. A female victim informed officers that a suspect approached her vehicle at gunpoint, demanding the car and her belongings. The suspect reportedly fled with other accomplices in both the victim’s car and their own vehicle.
Foot Chase Ensues, Officer Opens Fire
Following a description of the vehicles, an officer located the stolen car and encountered a male suspect. The officer ordered the suspect to lie down, but the suspect ran towards the getaway car. While fleeing, the suspect reportedly dropped an object and reached to pick it up. The officer then opened fire, striking the suspect at least once.
Uncertain Object, Investigation Underway
Police Chief Chris Bailey confirmed the suspect’s death at a hospital and the escape of the remaining suspects in the original car. Chief Bailey revealed the suspect dropped an item, but it’s unclear whether it was a weapon or something else. Officers did locate two firearms near the suspect after the shooting.
Body Camera Footage Available, Officer on Leave
The officer involved in the shooting was equipped with a body camera that was activated during the incident. As per protocol, the officer has been placed on administrative leave while the investigation into the shooting continues.
