TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – A tragic incident unfolded Monday at the Candlewood Suites hotel in downtown Terre Haute, as police confirmed that one person has died from a gunshot wound. Authorities have identified the victim, although their name has not yet been publicly released pending notification of family. The shooting took place at the hotel located in the 700 block of Wabash Avenue, prompting a swift and heavy law enforcement response.
Terre Haute Police Department officers arrived at the scene shortly after reports of shots fired at the extended-stay hotel. The area was immediately secured, and the public was urged to avoid the vicinity as investigators worked to determine the circumstances surrounding the violence. Officers established a perimeter and canvassed the area for witnesses and evidence.
Police have since arrested Wilson Chavez, a 32-year-old man from Dallas, Texas, in connection with the shooting. Chavez has been taken into custody on preliminary charges of Murder, though formal charges are still pending review by the Vigo County Prosecutor’s Office.
Details remain limited at this time, but investigators say the incident appears to have involved an altercation between individuals who may have known each other. It is not currently believed to be a random act of violence, though police have not confirmed a motive.
Detectives with the Terre Haute Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit are leading the investigation, and crime scene technicians were seen processing the scene late into Monday evening. Surveillance footage from the hotel and nearby businesses is being reviewed, and investigators are continuing to interview witnesses and gather forensic evidence.
Candlewood Suites guests were temporarily relocated from certain sections of the hotel during the investigation. Hotel management has expressed condolences to those affected and is cooperating fully with law enforcement.
This marks a somber moment for the city of Terre Haute, which has faced several high-profile violent incidents over the past year. Local leaders are again calling for community vigilance and cooperation in helping law enforcement address crime.
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Terre Haute Police Department at (812) 238-1661 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.
More details will be released as the investigation progresses.
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