Elkhart Police Department and SWAT Respond to Standoff

An individual has been taken into custody and is currently held at the Elkhart County Jail following a tense standoff involving the Elkhart Police Department and SWAT team in the 400 block of W. Marion St, Elkhart.

911 Call Alerts Authorities

On Monday, January 22nd, the Elkhart City 911 Communications Center received an urgent call at around 3:08 p.m., reporting a potential fight or domestic disturbance that had taken place in the 400 block of W. Marion St. Responding swiftly, officers from the Elkhart Police Department were dispatched to the scene.

Presence of Female Victim and Male Suspect

Upon arrival, officers made contact with the female victim who was outside the residence, as well as the alleged male suspect. The victim revealed that the male subject had physically assaulted her and made threats to shoot her.

Standoff Unfolds as Suspect Refuses to Leave

Despite attempts at negotiation, the alleged male suspect refused to vacate the premises, which consisted of multiple apartments. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, officers set up a perimeter around the area, leading to a protracted standoff.

SWAT Team Requested for Assistance

As the situation escalated, with the potential for a hostage scenario and the suspect’s threats of a shooting, the Elkhart County Regional SWAT team was called in to provide their expertise and support. Following established protocols, the SWAT team was dispatched to the scene.

SWAT Arrives and Suspect is Detained

At approximately 5:29 p.m., the SWAT team arrived at the residence. After hours of negotiation, the alleged suspect was eventually convinced to surrender and was taken into custody at around 7:53 p.m. As a precautionary measure, he was transported to the hospital for evaluation, subsequently cleared, and then transferred to the Elkhart County Jail. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported during the incident.

Arrest and Charges

The male suspect has been identified as Harvey Sanders, a 53-year-old resident of Elkhart. He was arrested on preliminary suspicion of Domestic Battery and Intimidation, and subsequently booked into the Elkhart County Jail.

Bond Set and Review of Criminal Charges

Today, an Elkhart County Judge set Sanders’ bond at £100,000. The Elkhart County Prosecutor’s Office is currently reviewing the case for the possibility of formal criminal charges.