Joseph Gerber Identified as Deceased Suspect in Chesterton Hotel Shootout That Injured Officer
CHESTERTON, Ind. — Authorities in Indiana have confirmed the identity and cause of death of a man involved in a violent shootout with police outside a Chesterton hotel early Wednesday morning. The Porter County Coroner, Cyndi Dykes, has identified the deceased as Joseph Gerber, a 45-year-old man from Winamac, Indiana. According to Dykes, Gerber died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, in addition to multiple other gunshot wounds sustained during the exchange of fire with police. His death has been officially ruled a suicide. Toxicology test results are still pending.
Timeline of the Incident
The chaotic events unfolded around 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 18, when Chesterton police responded to a report of a suspicious individual near the Hilton Garden Inn, located at 501 Gateway Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers encountered Gerber, who was reportedly behaving erratically and was armed.
An intense exchange of gunfire quickly erupted between Gerber and two Chesterton police officers. During the shootout, a 33-year-old officer was struck by gunfire. The officer was immediately rushed to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, Illinois, where he was treated and subsequently released. Authorities have confirmed that he is expected to make a full recovery.
Gerber was found critically wounded at the scene and was pronounced dead shortly after. A firearm was recovered near his body and is believed to have been the weapon used during the confrontation.
Official Investigation Underway
The incident is now under thorough review by the Indiana State Police, who are leading an independent investigation. As is standard protocol in police-involved shootings, both officers have been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation, according to Chesterton Police Chief Tim Richardson.
“Officer safety and transparency are paramount,” Richardson said. “This incident is being taken very seriously, and we are cooperating fully with the state police. We are also grateful that our injured officer is on the path to recovery.”
Investigators are currently reviewing body camera footage, collecting forensic evidence, and interviewing witnesses to determine the exact sequence of events. No further suspects are believed to be involved, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Community Response and Unanswered Questions
News of the shootout and Gerber’s death has shocked residents of the Chesterton community, a typically peaceful town in Porter County. Several guests at the nearby hotel and employees in the surrounding business area were startled by the sudden eruption of gunfire on what began as an otherwise normal morning.
As questions remain regarding what led to Gerber’s presence at the hotel and his confrontation with police, many are awaiting the results of the ongoing investigation. Authorities have not yet revealed any motive, and it remains unclear whether Gerber had a criminal history or any known mental health issues. Those details may become clearer once toxicology reports and background checks are completed.
While the identity of the injured officer has not been publicly released, local officials have expressed support and appreciation for his bravery in responding to a dangerous situation.
In the coming days, state investigators are expected to issue more findings related to the shooting, including whether the officers’ use of force was justified based on the threat posed by Gerber.
The incident remains an active case, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Indiana State Police or the Chesterton Police Department.
As the community continues to recover from the emotional shock of Wednesday’s events, many are reflecting on the dangers officers face in the line of duty and the unpredictable nature of encounters that can escalate in moments.