Mayor Pete Buttigieg was notified this afternoon of the results of Metro Homicide’s investigation into the officer-involved shooting on Tuesday, March 27. The investigation found that South Bend Police Officer Samuel Chaput’s use of his weapon was justifiable in self-defense after he was assaulted by Terrance Eppenger, based on statements by several witnesses to the incident in addition to the officer.
“We are extremely concerned any time we learn of a shooting involving a South Bend officer. I appreciate the thoroughness of the outside investigation, which determined that the officer used deadly force in self-defense and as a last resort. We also learned that the officer acted quickly to call in medical dispatch and administer on-site medical assistance. I am thankful that Officer Chaput has been released from the hospital and is recovering from his injuries, and hope for the recovery of Mr. Eppenger, who remains in critical condition. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this incident and their families.”
Now that the Metro Homicide Unit has released its findings, the South Bend Police Department will conduct an internal review to ensure that departmental policies and training were followed.
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