Elkhart Mourns the Loss of Allen Cogswell, 35, in Tragic Overnight Motel Shooting
ELKHART, IN — A somber mood has descended upon the Elkhart community following the tragic death of Allen Cogswell, 35, who was fatally shot early Sunday morning at the Daylite Inn on Cassopolis Street. Police responded to the scene shortly before 1 a.m., where they discovered Cogswell deceased inside one of the motel rooms. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The incident, which remains under active investigation, has rattled residents and raised renewed concerns about local safety and gun violence. At this time, no arrests have been announced, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
🕊️ Remembering Allen Cogswell
Allen Cogswell was more than a name in a headline. He was a son, a friend, and a member of the Elkhart community who deserved far more than a violent end. Those who knew him describe him as:
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Quiet but kind-hearted, always willing to offer a helping hand to those around him.
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Loyal to his circle, often staying close to family and longtime friends.
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A man who had his struggles, like many do, but who never gave up on trying to create a better life.
At just 35 years old, Allen had so much life ahead of him. His sudden death has devastated those who knew and loved him, leaving behind heartbreak, unanswered questions, and a call for justice.
🔍 The Incident: What We Know
Authorities say officers were dispatched to the Daylite Inn shortly before 1 a.m. on Sunday, June 23, 2025, following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they located Allen Cogswell inside a room, suffering from fatal gunshot wounds. Despite emergency response efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
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The Elkhart County Homicide Unit has taken over the investigation.
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No suspects have been named, and the motive remains unclear.
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The motel remains closed to the public while law enforcement continues to collect evidence and conduct interviews.
📞 Call for Public Assistance
As investigators piece together the events that led to Allen’s tragic death, they are asking for the community’s help.
If you have any information—no matter how small—that could assist in solving this case, you are urged to contact:
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Elkhart County Homicide Unit: 574-295-2825
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Michiana Crime Stoppers: 574-288-STOP (7867)
Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers’ online portal.
Your call could help bring closure to Allen’s grieving family and ensure justice is served.
🕯️ A City in Mourning
For many in Elkhart, this tragedy is yet another reminder of the toll that violence continues to take on the community. Neighborhood leaders and residents are expressing sadness and frustration:
“We lost another young man far too soon,” said a local resident. “This shouldn’t be normal. This can’t keep happening.”
Community advocates are calling for greater attention to violence prevention, mental health support, and community resources to address the underlying factors that lead to such tragedies.
💐 Honoring Allen’s Memory
Plans for a memorial or vigil are reportedly in the works by friends and family who wish to remember Allen for who he was—not just the way he died. In the meantime, tributes have begun pouring in on social media:
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“You had your struggles, but you always tried. That’s what I’ll remember,” one friend wrote.
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“Rest easy, Allen. We’ll miss you more than you know.”
🛑 A Plea for Peace
The Elkhart Police Department and local leaders are reminding the public of the cost of unresolved conflict and the importance of seeking peaceful solutions to disputes. This tragic loss of life only underscores the need for greater unity and vigilance in keeping our communities safe.
📣 Final Thoughts
Allen Cogswell’s life was ended far too soon, in circumstances that remain unresolved. While authorities search for answers and loved ones grieve, the community must rally together—not only to demand justice but to uplift one another in the face of loss.
If you saw or heard anything, please step forward. Let’s help bring peace to Allen’s family, and ensure that his story is not forgotten.