East Chicago, IN – A Fourth of July celebration in East Chicago, Indiana turned violent Thursday night after officers responded to two separate shootings, one involving a child reportedly struck by a stray bullet.
According to the East Chicago Police Department, the first incident occurred around 9 p.m. in the area of 419 Vernon Street. Officers arrived on scene after a shots fired call and found a large party taking place in an alley behind the address. During the gathering, a disturbance escalated and an unidentified suspect allegedly fired into the crowd.
Three adults sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds and were transported to St. Catherine Hospital. A large crowd gathered at the hospital, but police said those present were uncooperative and refused to provide information about the shooting. The department’s Criminal Investigation Division was called to investigate.
A second incident was reported shortly after in the area of 5022 Baring Avenue. Officers responded to Community Hospital in Munster after a 12-year-old boy arrived with a gunshot wound to the shoulder. According to detectives, the victim’s family stated they were outside lighting fireworks when the boy complained of pain and was discovered to be bleeding. No gunshots were reportedly heard in the area, and investigators believe the juvenile was struck by a stray bullet.
The East Chicago Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division is continuing to investigate both shootings. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact Detective Miguel Pena at 219-391-8318 or mpena@eastchicago.com. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 219-391-8500.
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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