Elkhart police target of violent threats, City says

ELKHART, Ind. (WISH) – The Elkhart Police Department has been the target of multiple threats following a police shooting ending with a teenager’s death. 

The City of Elkhart said the threats were violent in nature in a post on its Facebook page. The post didn’t say whether the people involved explained why the threats were being made. 

It comes days after two Elkhart police officers shot and killed a 17-year-old male just after 1:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 8. 

“Frustration and anger are understandable emotions, but threats of violence are not acceptable,” the City of Elkhart said in its post. “Now more than ever, our community needs calmness, respect, and a commitment to keeping everyone safe.”

EPD claims, on Feb. 8, an officer spotted a “suspicious vehicle” parked in a lot on Beardsley Ave. There was an adult driver in the car, several passengers, and a second officer was called as backup. 

Both officers ended up firing their weapons, ultimately killing one of the juvenile passengers. Police have not explained what led to the shooting. Police say multiple handguns from within and around the vehicle were seized.