As the investigation continues in the officer involved shooting on September 12, 2025, near Schwartz and Irving Roads in northeast Allen County, we are providing this update.
News release from the Indiana State Police:
UPDATE Officer Involved Shooting Near Schwartz Rd. and Irving Rd. in Northeast Allen County
Fort Wayne, Indiana (September 17, 2025) – As the investigation continues in the officer involved shooting on Friday, September 12, 2025, near Schwartz and Irving Roads in northeast Allen County, we are providing this update.
An Allen County Sheriff’s Department Deputy was on patrol after 8:00pm on Friday, September 12, 2025, when they noticed a vehicle parked at the dead end of Irving Rd. When the Deputy approached to investigate the suspicious vehicle, they noticed an armed person with an unknown injury. Because of the unusual nature of the incident and the person was armed, the Deputy called for backup. Because of the location of the call, officers from the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, the Fort Wayne Police Department, and the Indiana State Police Department all arrived on scene. The officers on scene attempted to de-escalate and talk to the person, but after some time the occupant of the vehicle stepped from the car and raised the weapon towards police. In defense of themselves and other officers on scene, officers from all three agencies fired at the person. At this point in the investigation it has been determined that the individual was in the car with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound when the deputy first approached.
The Fort Wayne Police Officer who suffered a minor injury was released from the hospital shortly after the incident. It is still not clear the exact cause of their injury.
The Allen County Coroner’s Office has identified the person involved as 81-year-old William Joseph Peters a white male. Please direct any questions regarding the identity or cause of death to the Allen County Coroner’s Office.
The Indiana State Police Investigations Bureau is conducting a thorough investigation into the incident, and no other information is available at this time.
If you or anyone you know is having mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, please seek help. You can find help at National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.
All criminal defendants are to be presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
All information is preliminary and subject to change during the course of the investigation.
Investigators are asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Fort Wayne Police Department at 427-1201, Crime Stoppers at 436-7867, or use the free “P3 Tips” app.
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