One person lost their life when IMPD SWAT officers attempted to serve a search warrant at a motel in Lawrence.
The incident reportedly took place at the Park Terrace Motel, located in the 9000 block of Pendleton Pike, at approximately 10:35 a.m., according to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.
According to the Lawrence Police Department, IMPD is the leading agency in the incident.
The gunfire did not result in any injuries to police officers.
The IMPD reported that narcotic detectives, with the support of SWAT, were attempting to execute a warrant at the motel for a sought suspect who was recognized as armed and dangerous. SWAT entered the motel room after the police declared their presence and failed to elicit a response from the suspect. The suspect is reported to have retrieved a firearm.
According to the police, the two SWAT officers shot the suspect after a struggle over the weapon.
The suspect was transported to a nearby hospital, but he was ultimately declared deceased.
“No one desires to be present today, and we regret our presence.” We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the family. “It is a human life, irrespective of the circumstances that have brought us to this point,” stated Chief Chris Bailey of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.
According to the police, a woman was also present in the motel room. According to reports, she adhered to police directives and sustained no injuries. She is currently being held in custody as part of the investigation.
“We would prefer that individuals adhere to the directives issued by officers.” They were executing a search warrant that was both valid and signed. Bailey stated, “There were numerous opportunities to comply with the officers’ commands.”
Although the incident occurred in Lawrence, the only individuals involved were IMPD officers.
The shooting occurs in the aftermath of a violent and fatal week in the vicinity of Lawrence and Indianapolis.
“This week has been extremely challenging for our city and community, and incidents such as this are not conducive to improving the situation.” Nevertheless, Assistant Chief Michael Wolley expressed his gratitude that none of our officers sustained injuries.
“I am also relieved that our officers are unharmed.” Bailey stated, “This is yet another illustration of the hazardous work they perform on behalf of our city.”
According to the IMPD, body cameras were utilized and outfitted during the incident.
At present, the deceased has not been identified.
The criminal investigation was conducted by the IMPD Critical Incident Response Team, which was dispatched to the site.
IMPD Internal Affairs is currently conducting an independent administrative investigation.A standard procedure in an officer-involved shooting investigation is to place the two SWAT officers who discharged their guns on administrative leave.
A mandatory inquiry will be conducted by the civilian-majority Use of Force Review Board in the event of any attempted use of deadly force against an individual. This transpires after the conclusion of the criminal process.
The Police Officer Support Team (POST) responded to offer peer support to officers. The IMPD Chaplain’s Office responded to assist the individuals involved.
The IMPD Victims Assistance unit was dispatched to provide support to detectives and officers.
