Indiana State Police Investigating Officer Involved Shooting in Muncie

(Muncie, Indiana) Detectives from the Indiana State Police Pendleton District were requested by Delaware County Sheriff, Tony Skinner to investigate an officer involved shooting that occurred in Muncie this evening.

On June 23, 2023, around 7:46 p.m., Deputies from the Delaware County Sheriff's Office were searching for Tarron H. Conwell, 19, of Alexandria, who was wanted for questioning for an unrelated case and had active warrants out of Madison County.  The officers were looking for Conwell near the 3000 block of Mock Avenue.  Officers witnessed Conwell leave a residence and proceeded to apprehend the suspect.  When Conwell saw officers, he reportedly fled on foot from police and at some point during the chase pulled out a 9mm handgun and fired at officers.  

Deputy Carter Smithson of the Delaware County Sheriff's Office returned fire with his department issued sidearm.  During the exchange of gunfire, Sergeant Tim Mitchell utilized his department issued police vehicle to stop the deadly and aggressive actions of Conwell and to protect the other officer on foot.  The police vehicle was also struck by gunfire from the suspect. Neither officer was injured during this encounter.

Immediately after apprehending Conwell, the officers on scene rendered medical aid to the suspect. Paramedics were called to the scene and officers continued medical aid until they arrived. The suspect was transported to Indiana University Ball Memorial Hospital and transferred to Indiana University Methodist in Indianapolis.  Conwell is listed in stable condition. Investigators are still on scene collecting evidence, that evidence will be submitted to the crime lab for further analyzation. 

The Indiana State Police was assisted by the Delaware County Sheriff's Office, Muncie Police Department,  Muncie Fire Department, Muncie EMS, and the Delaware County Prosecutor's Office.

The information in this release is preliminary, this investigation is ongoing and there is no further information to release. All crimes mentioned above are alleged and all suspects are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court. 

-30-

Image of Conwell's firearm.

Photo of round striking police vehicle.

Photo of round striking police vehicle mirror.