Elkhart Police Department Names Officers in Feb. 8th Officer-Involved Shooting Investigation

News Release-EPD Releases Names of Officers in Feb. 8th Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting, 3.6.26

In accordance with City board requirements, the Elkhart Police Department is publicly identifying the two officers involved in the February 8, 2026, fatal officer-involved shooting at High Dive Park (500 E. Beardsley Ave.).

 The officers who discharged their service weapons during the incident are Patrolman Thomas Breneman and Patrolman Nicholas Ragsdale. Patrolman Ragsdale has served with the Elkhart Police Department for more than three years, and Patrolman Breneman has been with the Department for over two years.

 The investigation into this incident remains ongoing and is being conducted by the Elkhart County Homicide Unit.  As previously announced, both officers were placed on administrative leave on February 8th, consistent with Department policy, pending the outcome of the Homicide Unit’s investigation.

 This remains an active investigation with the Elkhart County Homicide Unit.  We remain in support of the Elkhart County Prosecutor releasing all of the information legally permissible, including the body camera footage.

 The Officers of the Elkhart Police Department remain committed to serving this community with professionalism and excellence.

Previously issued press releases in this investigation:

Elkhart County Prosecutor’s Office, 2.18.26: OFFICER-INVOLVED SHOOTING INVESTIGATION UPDATE - Office of the Prosecuting Attorney for Elkhart County

EPD Original Release, 2.8.26: Elkhart County Homicide Unit Investigating After Officer Involved Shooting, E. Beardsley Ave | City of Elkhart