GARY, IN – A Portage mother of six was tragically killed Friday night after being caught in the crossfire of a shooting near a Gary McDonald’s. Kia Tidwell, 42, was driving eastbound on 5th Avenue when she was struck by gunfire, according to Gary Police Commander Jack Hamady.
Officers had initially responded to a disturbance call at the McDonald’s on Grant Street and 5th Avenue, but the individuals involved had already dispersed.
While on the scene, officers heard a commotion near Lincoln Street and approached a large gathering. Shots suddenly rang out from behind an apartment building, fatally striking Tidwell and causing her to crash her car into a tree.
The Gary Mayor’s Office released a statement expressing their devastation at Tidwell’s senseless death, highlighting the profound loss of her six children. Multiple agencies, including the Lake County Prosecutors Homicide Task Force, Lake County CSI, and Coroner’s Office, are actively investigating the incident.
Authorities are asking for anyone with information about the case to contact Indiana State Police Detective Roger Escutia or utilize the anonymous Text-a-Tip line. Gary Mayor Eddie Melton and Police Chief Derrick Cannon are scheduled to hold a press conference on Monday to provide an update on the investigation.