East Chicago, IN – A federal search warrant executed early Thursday morning led to the arrest of a man connected to a July officer-involved shooting, authorities confirmed.
According to the East Chicago Police Department, officers assisted the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) around 6 a.m. at a residence in the 5000 block of Melville Avenue. The target of the warrant was Curtis Lamar Hill, 44, of East Chicago.
Investigators said the warrant stems from a July 22, 2025, incident where Officer Jose Vega responded to a ShotSpotter alert and found a gunshot victim. While aiding the victim, the suspect—identified as Hill—allegedly approached with a visible firearm. When Hill reportedly refused multiple commands to drop the weapon, Officer Vega discharged his firearm, striking Hill and stopping the threat.
Police later recovered a loaded firearm and surveillance footage during the investigation. Hill has since been charged with multiple felonies, including:
- Aggravated Battery
- Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon
- Pointing a Firearm
- Unlawful Carrying of a Firearm by a Violent Convicted Felon
- Resisting Law Enforcement
The ATF has also filed federal charges, and Hill remains in federal custody. The East Chicago Police Department said it continues to work closely with federal partners as the investigation continues.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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