Man Struck and Killed by Law Enforcement During Welfare Search in Hancock County

1. Police investigating fatal incident after man laying in road struck by deputy during search
2. Police investigating fatal incident after man struck by deputy during search.

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Hancock County Officials Investigate Tragic Incident During Welfare Search

HANCOCK COUNTY — The Hancock County Sheriff’s Department (HCSD) is currently investigating a devastating incident that occurred during a welfare search. Law enforcement authorities responded to a distressing welfare call in Hancock County, where they discovered a man lying in the driving lanes of a county road. Tragically, a deputy from the HCSD accidentally struck the man while conducting the search in dense fog. Authorities have confirmed the man’s death at the scene.

In a release, Capt. Robert Harris of the HCSD stated that law enforcement officials were dispatched to the area of U.S. 40 and CR North 600W, commonly known as Mt. Comfort Road, at approximately 3:55 a.m. The welfare check was prompted by a report of a person found lying on the road in that vicinity. Responding swiftly, members of both the HCSD and Cumberland Police Department arrived at the scene.

The search for the person began immediately upon arrival. However, due to the dense fog, visibility was significantly impaired. Despite these challenging conditions, law enforcement officers diligently scoured both east and west on U.S. 40 from North 600W. Tragically, the person was lying in the travel lanes of U.S. 40, approximately half a mile east of North 600W. During the search, the HCSD deputy accidentally struck the individual.

Major Robert Campbell of the HCSD stated that it remains unclear whether the man was already deceased and lying on the road or if his death resulted from the collision with the deputy’s vehicle. As a result, another police department has been assigned to conduct an official investigation into the incident.

The deceased individual has been identified as a 41-year-old male who was wearing dark clothing. However, his name is being withheld until authorities can confirm his identity and notify his family. In the meantime, the deputy involved in the incident has been placed on administrative leave until the investigation is complete.

Major Campbell expressed the gravity of the situation and the need for a comprehensive investigation, stating, “This is a very dramatic event for everyone involved, including the man’s family. Therefore, there is still much to process here.” Campbell emphasized that the department is following standard protocol, allowing investigators to carry out their duties before releasing further information.

Hancock County Fatal Accident Crash Team Leads Investigation

The Hancock County Fatal Accident Crash Team (FACT) has been deployed to the scene to conduct a thorough investigation. Comprised of officers from various agencies in Hancock County, including the New Palestine Police Department, FACT will work in collaboration with the Hancock County Coroner’s Office to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. The investigation is currently ongoing.

As this heart-wrenching incident continues to unfold, the Hancock County Sheriff’s Department is prioritizing a meticulous investigation, ensuring all necessary steps are taken to address the situation appropriately..

1. Police investigating fatal incident after man laying in road struck by deputy during search

2. Police investigating fatal incident after man laying in road struck by deputy during search – The Daily Reporter.