IElkhart, IN — July 17, 202 – A grim discovery has prompted a major police and emergency response this afternoon in Elkhart, Indiana, after a body was found face down in the river near 300 E Beardsley Avenue, close to Beardsley Park. Law enforcement officials have confirmed the incident is being treated as a possible homicide, and a full investigation is now underway.
According to early reports, Elkhart City Police responded to a 911 call placed by a local woman who claimed she witnessed a man throw the victim into the river. However, she was described by officers at the scene as “not forthcoming with details,” leaving detectives with more questions than answers as they attempt to piece together what happened.
First responders arrived on scene to find the body of an adult male submerged face down in the water, with what authorities described as an “obvious 10-0” — police code for a confirmed fatality. The Elkhart Water Rescue team has staged operations at Beardsley Park, working to safely retrieve the body while preserving potential evidence from the scene.
Police have cordoned off a wide area around the riverbank and park, and members of the Elkhart Police Department’s Homicide Division have been called in. As of the latest update, homicide detectives are en route and expected to take over the investigation upon arrival.
Community on Edge
The discovery has rattled the normally quiet residential area near Beardsley Avenue, with stunned bystanders watching as officers and rescue crews work the scene. Local residents expressed concern and fear as word spread about the potential nature of the crime. “This is really scary. You don’t expect something like this to happen right near the park where kids play,” one resident told reporters near the scene.
Woman’s Statement Under Review
The woman who allegedly saw the victim being thrown into the river has been detained for questioning. While she did alert authorities, her vague and evasive responses have complicated the timeline and facts surrounding the incident. Police are urging any additional witnesses to come forward with information that could help clarify the situation.
Authorities have not yet identified the victim, and it is unknown at this time how long the body had been in the water or what may have led to the fatal encounter. An autopsy and forensic examination are expected once the body is recovered.
Investigation Ongoing
As the homicide unit prepares to assume command of the scene, police have issued a public advisory to avoid the area around Beardsley Park and 300 E Beardsley Ave as emergency vehicles and investigators remain active. Water recovery efforts are still in progress.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Elkhart City Police Department or submit tips anonymously through the department’s crime tip line or online portal.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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