A narcotics investigation in northwest Indiana ended in tragedy early Wednesday morning when a man identified as David Martin, 46, was fatally shot by law enforcement during a SWAT operation. The Lake County Coroner’s Office confirmed Martin’s identity and ruled his death a homicide caused by multiple gunshot wounds.
The incident occurred around 6 a.m. at the rear of an apartment building in the 600 block of Adams Street in Gary. According to the Gary Police Department, a SWAT team was executing a search warrant linked to ongoing reports of drug trafficking from the residence. Authorities say that as officers approached, Martin — the subject of the warrant — exited through the back of the building and engaged officers with a firearm, prompting them to return fire.
Neighbors were jolted awake by a loud explosion followed by bursts of gunfire. “It was quite frightening initially,” said Anthony Griffin, a resident who lives next door to the targeted apartment. “I merely heard an explosion, stepped out my back door, and saw a man lying there. I instructed my children to go inside.”
Witnesses described Martin as someone who often waved at neighbors and appeared friendly, deepening the shock felt throughout the community. “It was shocking,” Griffin added. “My initial thought was, what occurred — and it was mere feet from my children.”
The exact number of officers involved in the shooting or the number of rounds fired has not been released. Officials stated that the operation stemmed from community tips about drug-related activity in the area.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Department is now leading the investigation into the officer-involved shooting. More details are expected to emerge as authorities continue to review evidence and interview witnesses.
David Martin’s death marks a sobering turn in the police effort to combat narcotics in Gary, and authorities are urging the public to remain patient as the case unfolds.
