INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Indiana State Police are looking into a fatal road rage shooting that took place on Interstate 65 on Wednesday. The victim, identified as 35-year-old Ryan Hawkins, was deaf, according to family members.
State police report that Hawkins was traveling northbound on I-65 near Southport Road when he was shot, causing him to swerve off the road. His car crashed into a pond, ejecting him before sinking. Upon inspection, a bullet wound was found on Hawkins’ body, and his car had several bullet holes.
Sgt. John Perrine of the Indiana State Police commented on the tragic incident, saying it’s terrifying that a driving mistake could potentially cost someone their life. Perrine informed that police had possibly located the suspect’s car.
Crucial information for this case stemmed from witnesses who observed the incident on I-65. Following these leads, the Indiana State Police disclosed on Friday that two individuals were arrested in connection with the shooting. However, formal charges have not been lodged.
A worrisome trend in road rage shootings has been noted by the agency since the pandemic. Indiana State Police have responded to over 60 road rage shootings annually on Indianapolis interstates since 2021, a significant rise from the 9 incidents reported in both 2018 and 2019. Perrine acknowledged the alarming frequency and emphasized the need to understand why such incidents have become commonplace.