Indiana State Police are investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred early Tuesday morning in Carroll County. The incident began just after midnight on December 24, when Cass County sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported stabbing at a residence on West County Road 500 South, near the Carroll County line.
Deputies arrived around 12:20 a.m. and found one of two stabbing victims, immediately providing life-saving aid. While retrieving additional medical supplies from a patrol vehicle, a deputy encountered a man armed with knives. The man, identified as 35-year-old Christopher S. Evans of Logansport, refused to comply with commands and advanced toward the deputy in a threatening manner. In response, the deputy discharged their firearm, striking Evans. Medics pronounced him dead at the scene.
The two stabbing victims were transported to local hospitals. One remains in critical but stable condition, while the other sustained non-life-threatening injuries. No deputies were injured during the incident. Following standard procedure, the deputy involved has been placed on administrative leave while an investigation is conducted.
The Indiana State Police are leading the investigation with assistance from the Carroll County Coroner’s Office and the Carroll County Prosecutor’s Office. Authorities are working to establish a detailed account of the events, including the initial stabbing incident and the confrontation that led to the shooting. A post-mortem examination will confirm the cause and manner of Evans’ death.
Investigators are analyzing evidence from the scene, including potential body camera footage and witness statements. The involvement of multiple agencies underscores the commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the process.
This tragic incident highlights the challenges law enforcement officers face when responding to violent crimes. Officers often make split-second decisions in unpredictable and dangerous situations to protect lives, including their own. As the investigation continues, the community is awaiting further details to better understand the circumstances surrounding these events.