South Bend, Ind. – Around 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, a single gunshot was heard near the Eddy Street Commons and Angela Boulevard area as fans were leaving the Notre Dame football tailgate zones. The shot struck a woman and a South Bend police officer, leaving both with non‑life‑threatening injuries.
Incident details
According to a Facebook post from the South Bend Police Department, roughly 20 officers were on the scene when the gunfire occurred. First responders quickly located the victims: the woman suffered a leg wound, while the officer was injured by either a ricochet or shrapnel. Both were transported to a local hospital and are expected to make full recoveries. The department later confirmed the officer was “doing fine” and the woman was “okay.”
Suspect description and search
Notre Dame officials reported that the suspected shooter fled westward from the scene. Local reports describe the suspect as a heavy‑set Black male with dreadlocks, wearing blue shorts, a black shirt featuring a red and blue design, and missing one shoe. Police have not yet apprehended the individual, and the investigation remains active.
Police response
Following the shooting, South Bend police evacuated nearby businesses and parking structures, locking down the busy commercial district to preserve the crime scene and protect the public. Officers maintained a heavy presence in the area while they continued their investigation, urging residents to avoid the vicinity until the situation was resolved.
Related incident
Later that night, another shooting occurred roughly one mile away, resulting in at least two deaths and a third person critically injured. Authorities have indicated there is no known connection between the two incidents, but both events have heightened concerns about public safety in the city.
Community impact
The South Bend community, known for its strong ties to the University of Notre Dame and its vibrant downtown, expressed shock at the violence occurring during a traditionally family‑friendly tailgate atmosphere. Local leaders and faith‑based groups have called for calm, prayer, and cooperation with law enforcement as the search for the suspect continues.
Next steps
Police are asking anyone with information about the shooter to contact the South Bend Police Department. The investigation remains ongoing, and updates will be provided as more details become available.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
