For Immediate Release

Date: 12/20/2023

Time: 0:09 AM

Location: Wells & Superior Street Roundabout

Details:

Shortly after midnight on Saturday, December 30, officers were patrolling in the area of Calhoun St and 4th Street when they noticed a suspicious vehicle. Uniformed officers attempted to contact the driver when the vehicle took off, initiating a vehicle pursuit. The suspect drove towards the Wells Street roundabout and came to a stop. At that time officers observed the suspect displaying a firearm.

Officers closed the roundabout and attempted to make contact verbally. Due to the driver refusing to exit the vehicle and a weapon involved, the Emergency Services Team (EST-Tactical Officers) and Crisis Response Team (Negotiators) were requested to the scene.

Once negotiators were on scene, they were able to establish communication with the suspect. Negotiators spent several hours attempting to convince the suspect to exit the vehicle unarmed. EST officers attempted tactical less than lethal interventions to end the situation. Around 4:40am the suspect exited the vehicle with the firearm. Officers then discharged their firearms and struck the suspect. The suspect was provided immediate medical treatment by officers. An ambulance was already on scene due to the nature of the incident and provided advanced care. The suspect was transported to a local hospital and is being treated at this time.

The Wells Street roundabout remains closed at this time as crime scene technicians are processing the scene. This incident is being investigated by the Indiana State Police, Allen County Prosecutors Office, Fort Wayne Police Department Investigative Division, and Fort Wayne Police Department Internal Affairs. The involved officers will be placed on a standard five-day administrative leave of absence per protocol. Additional information will be released later.

Sergeant John Nichter
Public Information Officer
City of Fort Wayne Police Department