Officer-Involved Shooting Leaves Armed Suspect Dead in Michigan City, Indiana: Investigation Underway
Michigan City, IN – April 6, 2025 – A young man is dead following an officer-involved shooting during a foot pursuit on Michigan City’s south side, prompting an official investigation and renewed debate over the use of deadly force by law enforcement.
The incident unfolded around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, in the 5800 block of South Franklin Street, when officers with the Michigan City Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a red Dodge SUV for an alleged equipment violation. During the stop, the passenger—identified as Jorge Meza, 21, of South Bend—reportedly fled on foot. According to police, Meza was visibly armed with a handgun as he ran from the vehicle.
Officers pursued Meza through a nearby area, and during the foot chase, one officer discharged their firearm, striking Meza. Authorities have not yet confirmed the number of shots fired or the specific circumstances that led the officer to open fire. Body camera footage, if available, has not yet been released to the public.
After the shooting, emergency responders at the scene provided immediate first aid before transporting Meza to Franciscan Health Hospital in Michigan City. Despite lifesaving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the hospital. An autopsy is scheduled to take place on Sunday, April 6, through the LaPorte County Coroner’s Office.
Law Enforcement Response and Ongoing Investigation
The Michigan City Police Department confirmed that the officer involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave, per standard protocol in officer-involved shootings. The department stated that it is fully cooperating with an independent investigation being conducted by a regional Critical Incident Response Team, which includes representatives from multiple area law enforcement agencies and oversight bodies.
“We understand that any loss of life is tragic, and we are committed to a thorough and transparent investigation,” said a department spokesperson in a statement released Saturday evening. “We ask for the community’s patience and trust as we work to gather all the facts.”
Public Reaction and Community Tensions
News of the incident has triggered immediate public response and divided opinions. While some community members have voiced concerns about the use of deadly force against a fleeing suspect, others argue that the situation escalated because the suspect was armed and running from law enforcement.
Local activist groups have already begun to call for the release of bodycam footage and a full, independent review of the shooting. They argue that transparency is critical to maintaining community trust and ensuring accountability in police actions.
“This is yet another tragic reminder of the need to reassess how force is used, particularly when someone is fleeing,” said one local civil rights advocate. “Even when a suspect is armed, there must be careful judgment in how officers respond.”
On the other side, others, including law enforcement supporters, say the officers were placed in a dangerous and volatile situation and responded based on the threat level at hand.
“Running from police with a weapon in your hand is a recipe for disaster,” said a Michigan City resident. “It’s tragic, but the suspect made a choice that ultimately ended his life.”
A Life Cut Short
Family and friends of Jorge Meza are grieving his loss and have begun sharing tributes on social media, describing him as a young man with “a lot of life left to live.” While Meza did have a prior criminal record, his family insists that he was trying to turn things around.
“He made mistakes, like all of us,” said a cousin. “But he didn’t deserve to die like that. We want answers.”
At just 21 years old, Meza’s death is yet another addition to the growing list of fatal encounters between young men of color and law enforcement—a reality that continues to fuel national conversations around policing, public safety, and justice reform.
What Happens Next?
The results of the autopsy, witness interviews, and forensic analysis will be critical in determining whether the officer’s use of force was justified under state and departmental guidelines. The identity of the officer has not yet been released.
It remains unclear whether Meza brandished or pointed his weapon at officers during the chase, or whether any verbal commands were issued before shots were fired. Those details are expected to be key points in the investigation.
Michigan City officials have not ruled out holding a public forum or press conference to address the community’s concerns once more information becomes available.
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, Michigan City joins a list of communities nationwide grappling with the complexities of law enforcement, public safety, and trust. Advocates on both sides of the debate are watching closely, urging a process that is transparent, fair, and centered on accountability.
For now, the community waits—for answers, for footage, and for justice in a situation that has once again highlighted the tension between policing and the people they serve.
Anyone with video footage, information about the incident, or who witnessed any part of the altercation is encouraged to contact the Michigan City Police Department or submit tips anonymously through LaPorte County Crime Stoppers.
If you or someone you know is affected by this event and needs support, local mental health and crisis services are available 24/7.