(Michigan City, IN) - A man is dead following a police shooting in Michigan City Friday evening.
The Indiana State Police, who are now investigating, issued a statement on the incident. They say at about 5:30 p.m. a Michigan City police officer conducted a traffic stop on a red Dodge SUV in the 5800 block of South Franklin Street.
According to police, an armed male fled from the scene on foot. One of the officers giving chase discharged a firearm, striking the suspect, who was immediately rendered first aid, then transported to Franciscan Health Hospital in Michigan City where he was pronounced dead.
On Saturday, after notifying family, State Police revealed the deceased suspect's identity: Jorge Meza (21) of South Bend. An autopsy through the La Porte County Coroner's Office is scheduled for Sunday, April 6.
State Police detectives will continue to review all body camera and in-car videos and turn evidence over to the La Porte County Prosecutor for review.
Michigan City Police Chief Marty Corley has placed the officer involved in the incident on paid administrative leave, in accordance with department policy, while the State Police investigation is being conducted. Corley said the identity of the officer will be released once all interviews have been completed.
Following the incident, Michigan City Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch issued the following statement:
“This is a deeply serious matter, and my thoughts are with everyone affected. This is the first officer-involved shooting to occur under my administration. To ensure a thorough and impartial investigation, the incident has been turned over to the Indiana State Police. We have full confidence in their ability to carry out a comprehensive and transparent review.”
“As this remains an active investigation, we are limited in the details we can share at this time. I ask for the community’s patience as the facts are gathered. We are committed to sharing verified information as it becomes available and to upholding the trust of our residents throughout this process.”
