A shooting incident unfolded in Muncie, Indiana, early Sunday morning. A block party turned into a scene of violence when gunfire broke out. One person lost their life and many others were injured in what authorities have labeled as a “mass shooting.”
Dispatchers received a distressing call around 1:14 a.m., reporting multiple individuals shot in the vicinity of S. Hackley St. and E. Willard St. Initial reports indicated that a large party was taking place at the location. The City of Muncie issued a press release stating that while there was no ongoing threat to the community, numerous victims had been injured, some critically. In response to the scale of the incident, multiple agencies were called upon to provide assistance, including police officers from neighboring Eaton.
Although the exact number of injured individuals was not disclosed by the authorities, Indiana University Health Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie confirmed that 19 victims had been treated in their emergency department for injuries related to the shooting. As of Sunday morning, more than a dozen victims remained at the hospital in stable condition. Some critically injured victims were transferred to other medical facilities via helicopter.
The man who tragically lost his life in the shooting was identified as 30-year-old Joseph E. Bonner III, according to Delaware County Coroner Gavin Greene. The community mourns the loss of Bonner, as they grapple with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, as law enforcement agencies work diligently to gather evidence and determine the motive behind the shooting.
The Muncie community has put together resources to support the victims and their families during this difficult time. Local organizations and community leaders are offering counseling services and resources to those affected by the shooting. In the meantime, the investigation into the block party shooting continues.