Crime
Victim killed in shooting at Harvest Homecoming festival in New Albany identified as 18-year-old Bryce Gerlach
Chief Bailey emphasized that Gerlach and two others were innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire.
New Albany, Indiana – A devastating shooting incident occurred during the Harvest Homecoming festival in New Albany on Saturday night, resulting in one fatality and two injuries.
The shooting took place just after 9:50 PM near the intersection of State Street and Black Street, close to the festival rides.
New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey confirmed that an 18-year-old from Corydon, Bryce Gerlach, was tragically killed in the shooting.
Two other victims, a 22-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman, were also wounded and remain hospitalized.
Chief Bailey confirmed that all three victims were innocent bystanders who were not involved in the dispute that led to the shooting.
Multiple gunshots were reported at 9:53 PM in the area of State and Black streets, as well as near the carnival and ride area of the festival.
Witnesses have indicated that there were likely multiple shooters firing from different locations, possibly at least two.
Investigators initially believed the shots were fired from the area behind the Scribner House and from the parking lot of the Floyd County YMCA.
However, they now believe there may have been another shooter within the carnival area.
The shooting is believed to have stemmed from a dispute between at least two groups of individuals, all described as Black males in their late teens to early 20s. Following the incident, all suspects fled the scene.
The police chief noted that despite the proximity of multiple employees, police officers, and security personnel to the shooting area, they were able to quickly initiate life-saving measures for the injured.
Several “persons of interest” have been identified, but further details about them are unavailable as the investigation continues.
Chief Bailey emphasized that the suspects should still be considered at large and pose a risk to the public. He described their actions as reckless and dangerous, and urged the community to remain vigilant.
As soon as positive identifications are made, the police department will release that information publicly.
Crime
33-year-old Shawn Egner killed in Hamilton shooting
The other individual involved remained at the scene and is currently cooperating with detectives.
HAMILTON, OH — The Hamilton Police Department is actively investigating a fatal shooting that occurred early Tuesday morning, leaving 33-year-old Shawn Egner dead.
Police responded to reports of shots fired around 5:45 a.m. in the 1100 block of Clovernook Drive, located off Southern Hills Lane near Hamilton Cleves Pike Road (Ohio 128).
Upon arrival, officers discovered Egner suffering from gunshot wounds.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to initial emergency communications, Egner was allegedly shot during an altercation involving two adults.
The other individual involved remained at the scene and is currently cooperating with detectives.
Police initially reported that the suspect may have fled in a purple Honda Civic, but further investigation has clarified that no additional suspects are being sought at this time.
Hamilton Police Spokesman Sgt. Brian Ungerbuehler stated that while detectives are interviewing the person involved in the altercation, no charges have been filed.
The decision regarding potential charges will be made in consultation with the Butler County Prosecutor’s Office as the investigation progresses.
Officers blocked off Southern Hills Lane at Hamilton Cleves Pike Road for several hours to process the scene, gather evidence, and interview witnesses.
The motive behind the altercation that led to Egner’s death remains under investigation, and police have not released further details about what may have caused the confrontation.
“This investigation is still in its early stages,” said Sgt. Ungerbuehler. “We are working diligently to piece together the events that led to this tragic outcome.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to contact Detective Ruhl at 513-868-5811, ext. 1271. Tips can remain anonymous.
The Hamilton Police Department will provide additional updates as more information becomes available.