State Police ID officers in Brownstown shooting
Indiana State Police have identified the two officers involved in Wednesday’s fatal shooting in Brownstown.
ISP says that Police Chief Tom Hanner was one of the officers. Chief Hanner, a 15-year law enforcement veteran, has served as head of the Brownstown Police Department for seven years. He previously served with the Jackson County Sheriffs Department.
The second officer has been identified as Assistant Chief Joe Kelly. ISP says that Assistant Chief Kelly is a 12-year law enforcement veteran. He previously served with the Indiana Capital Police before being hired by the Brownstown Police Department.
Sgt. Stephen Wheeles, spokesman for the Indiana State Police, says that 53-year-old Barry Rucker, of Brownstown, was shot by police responding to a report of domestic disturbance outside the station at Poplar and Walnut streets at about 8 a.m. Wednesday.
Investigators say that Rucker was arguing with a woman when the officers arrived. Rucker allegedly pulled a gun moments later. That led to both officers firing on Rucker, striking him at least once.
Jackson County deputies arrived on the scene and along with the Brownstown officers provided first aid to Rucker until paramedics arrived and took him to Schneck Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.
Indiana State Police say both Chief Hanner and Assistant Chief Kelly have been placed on administrative leave per department protocol.
The investigation is ongoing. State Police say that, when finished, ISP will submit the investigation to the Jackson County Prosecutors Office for review.