INDIANAPOLIS, IN – A tense manhunt is underway following a dramatic shootout between an Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officer and an armed suspect. The officer, who was attempting to stop a carjacked vehicle, is now recovering in the hospital.
The incident unfolded in the early afternoon when the officer approached a white Honda sedan reported stolen the previous day. As the officer initiated the stop near the intersection of 16th and Lafayette Road, the situation quickly escalated.
One individual fled from the car as the officer moved to detain the driver. Amidst the chaos, two additional passengers exited the vehicle. One of them circled to the front of the car and opened fire on the officer with a gun equipped with an extended magazine.
Under a barrage of bullets, the wounded officer managed to return fire, striking the shooter. The suspect was later found armed inside a nearby apartment building. Authorities are currently searching for the individual who initially escaped.
This incident marks the second time in a week that IMPD officers have been targeted. Just days ago, a 76-year-old man was shot and killed after he fired at officers during an arrest attempt. Fortunately, no officers were harmed in that encounter.
The officer involved in today’s shootout remains hospitalized but is in stable condition. He has been placed on administrative leave while the shooting is investigated. The suspect who was shot is in critical condition.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett expressed gratitude for the officer’s condition and emphasized the bravery of the IMPD. City and state leaders are condemning the violence and calling for community cooperation to enhance safety.
The IMPD urges anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the suspect who fled to contact authorities immediately.