Victims, injured officers, and suspect identified in Martin's Supermarket shooting
See Also
- Local charity using Crisis Fund to assist those impacted by Martin's shootings
- Martin's releases statement following deadly shooting on Monday
- Elkhart residents react to Martin's Supermarket mass shooting
- VIDEO: Elkhart Martin's shooting suspect chase ends at nearby apartment
- 3 dead including suspect, 2 officers injured in shooting at Elkhart Martin's Supermarket
Documents state 49-year-old Benjamin S. Jeffery and 19-year-old Annasue Rocha, both of Elkhart, were killed by a lone gunman, identified as 54-year-old Juan M. Sanchez, at around 5:45 p.m. in the Martin’s Supermarket on E. Jackson Boulevard in Elkhart.
Rocha was a Martin's employee, while Jeffery was a customer at the time of the attack.
Authorities say the gunman fired several shots inside the store, which caused several more people to be in significant danger.
Documents state Sanchez then exited the store and was confronted by two Elkhart police officers, identified as Corporal Paul Vandenburg and Patrolman Ethan Pasternak.
Police say Sanchez fired multiple times at the officers, who responded by fatally shooting him in the parking lot of the Riverpoint West Apartments.
Both Vandenburg and Pasternak were struck by the suspect's gunfire and are recovering from their injuries.
Pasternak remains hospitalized at this time in fair and stable condition, while Vandenburg's since been released.
Authorities say Sanchez had moved to the area within the past year from Illinois.
The Elkhart County Homicide Unit is investigating the incident, including the actions of the Sachez and the actions of the police officers.
Police say the investigation remains active with the collection of numerous types of evidence, witness interviews, and the gathering of background information underway.
As the investigation is ongoing, authorities ask that anyone with additional information call 574-295-2825.
Vandenburg has served with the Elkhart Police Department for over seven years, while Pasternak has served for almost two years.
EPD released the following statement regarding the shooting:
"The Elkhart Police Department is overwhelmed and grateful for the outpouring of kind words and support for our officers and community-not only from those we serve, but from people all across the country. We ask for the community to continue to keep all those effected by this horrific event in your thoughts and prayers."
Riverpoint West Apartment Complex statement:
Riverpoint West shares the sadness felt by all from the tragic events of yesterday and the immense loss felt in our community. While we are incredibly thankful to the brave first responders who worked so quickly to protect Elkhart from further harm, our hearts go out to those affected by this senseless act of violence. We will continue to support law enforcement in their investigation and our community’s healing. Elkhart is and remains a special place.