DANVILLE, Ind. — A tense and chaotic scene unfolded Monday outside the Hendricks County Courthouse in downtown Danville as police responded to an incident that resulted in an officer-involved shooting. The situation, which quickly drew the attention of bystanders and officials alike, is now under active investigation by the Indiana State Police.
According to Jim Yetter, Public Information Officer for the Hendricks County Sheriff’s Office, the incident involved a sheriff’s deputy who discharged their firearm just outside the courthouse. The shooting occurred during a routine prisoner transport or court-related procedure, though specific details remain under tight review.
One eyewitness reported that the chaos began when an inmate attempted to grab an officer’s firearm while outside the courthouse. Though this account has not yet been officially confirmed by law enforcement, it offers potential insight into what may have led to the sudden escalation and use of deadly force.
At this time, the identity and condition of the person who was shot have not been released. Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, and the individual was transported for medical evaluation or treatment. It is unclear whether the injuries were life-threatening.
Law enforcement officials have confirmed that the scene is secure, and there is no ongoing threat to the public. The courthouse and surrounding area were placed on a brief lockdown as a precaution but have since reopened. Despite the reassurance, the area outside the courthouse remains an active crime scene, with police tape cordoning off sections of the sidewalk and parking lot as investigators work to gather evidence and piece together the sequence of events.
The Indiana State Police have taken over the investigation, which is standard protocol in officer-involved shootings to ensure transparency and accountability. Detectives from the state’s criminal investigations division were seen arriving on scene Monday afternoon, photographing the area and interviewing witnesses, including courthouse staff and civilians who were nearby at the time of the shooting.
No additional information, such as the name of the deputy involved or whether the shooting was captured on body camera, has been released as of yet. Sheriff’s office officials have stated that all relevant procedures are being followed and that full cooperation is being given to the state investigators.
The incident has left the tight-knit community of Danville rattled, especially given that it occurred in such a central and typically secure location. “You don’t expect something like this outside the courthouse,” one local business owner said. “It’s unsettling.”
Community leaders have urged residents to remain calm and patient as facts are confirmed and released. Support is being offered to any staff or bystanders impacted by the traumatic event, and the Hendricks County Sheriff’s Office is expected to issue a formal statement once more details are available.
This developing story remains under close scrutiny, and updates will be provided as the Indiana State Police continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding this serious and potentially life-threatening confrontation.