Fort Wayne, IN – The Allen County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has ruled that a Fort Wayne police shooting earlier this year was justified, following an extensive joint investigation by the Fort Wayne Police Department and the Indiana State Police.
According to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the review—completed August 28, 2025—found no evidence of criminal liability in the January 8, 2025, incident that resulted in the death of Patricia Hepworth. Investigators determined that officers reasonably believed deadly force was necessary to prevent serious injury or death.
During the exchange, one Fort Wayne Police Department officer was also injured when a bullet or fragment struck their foot. The department stated that the officer’s actions were consistent with policy and that the use of force was “reasonable to prevent serious bodily injury or death.”
A Critical Incident Video Brief detailing the shooting has been released by police and can be viewed here.
The case marks the latest in a series of police action reviews where independent state and local authorities jointly evaluated use-of-force procedures.
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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