Elkhart County Homicide Unit Investigating After Officer Involved Shooting, E. Beardsley Ave

News Release: Elkhart County Homicide Unit Investigating After an Officer-Involved Shooting, E. Beardsley Ave, 2.8.26

The Elkhart County Homicide Unit continues to actively investigate an officer-involved shooting from earlier this morning at 500 E Beardsley Ave, Elkhart.

Today, February 8, 2026, at about 1:36 a.m., an Elkhart Police Department officer observed a suspicious vehicle at the High Dive Park Pavilion (500 E Beardsley Ave) parking lot after the park was closed to the public and after Indiana’s Curfew for minor children. The officer initiated contact with the adult driver and identified several male and female passengers, some of whom were juveniles. A second EPD officer arrived to assist. As the investigation progressed, at approximately 1:49 a.m., both officers discharged their firearms, injuring one male from the vehicle. Officers gave him first aid assistance at the scene, and Elkhart City Fire Department medics were immediately summoned. Medics transported the injured male to the hospital, where he was subsequently pronounced deceased.

Multiple handguns from within and around the suspicious vehicle, as well as both of the officers’ handguns, were seized for further investigation. During the incident, one of the officers sustained minor injury but did not require any immediate medical treatment. No other injuries were reported and there is believed to be no further danger to the public. The Elkhart County Homicide Unit was activated, per protocol, and is handling this investigation. The name of the deceased, a 17-year-old juvenile male, is being withheld at this time.

Both officers have been placed on administrative leave, per policy, while the Homicide Unit conducts its investigation and until further internal review is complete. This investigation is still in its early stages. We understand that the public has questions and concerns, and we ask for patience as the Homicide Unit’s investigative process moves forward. Anyone with further information can contact the Homicide Unit at 574-295-2825. All further inquiries regarding the status of the investigation should be also be directed to the Homicide Unit.

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