Crime
17-year-old Takoda Gallegos killed in Mishawaka shooting, juvenile suspect in custody
MISHAWAKA, IN – Authorities have identified the victim of a fatal shooting that occurred Wednesday night as 17-year-old Takoda Gallegos of Vandalia, Michigan.
Police were dispatched to the 200 block of North Indiana Avenue at approximately 8:45 p.m. following reports of a baby being shot.
However, upon arrival, officers determined that the initial report was inaccurate.
Inside the home, officers discovered Gallegos suffering from life-threatening gunshot injuries.
Despite efforts to provide assistance, Gallegos was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Following the incident, a juvenile suspect was identified and apprehended with the assistance of the St. Joseph County Metro SWAT team.
The suspect, whose identity has not been released due to their age, is currently being detained at the St. Joseph County Juvenile Justice Center.
The Mishawaka Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities have emphasized that there is no ongoing danger to the community.
Police are urging anyone with information related to the case to contact the Mishawaka Police Department Detective Bureau at 574-258-1684. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Michiana Crime Stoppers by calling 574-288-STOP (7867) or 1-800-342-STOP (7867).
The tragic death of Takoda Gallegos has sent shockwaves through both the Mishawaka and Vandalia communities. Law enforcement continues to work diligently to uncover the facts of this case and bring justice for the young victim.
This is an ongoing investigation, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
Crime
Charles McCloud Jr killed after trying to run over deputy investigating double murder
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) is investigating a series of shootings that occurred Wednesday night in Pahokee, culminating in a deputy-involved shooting.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office, and PBSO’s Violent Crimes Division are conducting parallel and joint reviews of the incident.
According to authorities, the violence began on Wednesday, February 25, at approximately 10:12 p.m., when 44-year-old Charles McCloud Jr. allegedly initiated a series of shootings at multiple locations throughout Pahokee over a roughly 40-minute span.
First Shooting – 171 Booker Place (10:12 p.m.)
McCloud allegedly shot two adult males at a residence located at 171 Booker Place.
Both victims were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Second Shooting – 8700 Block of Doveland Drive
Shortly afterward, multiple gunshots were reported in the 8700 block of Doveland Drive.
Although several rounds were fired, authorities confirmed that no individuals were struck during this incident.
Third Shooting – 750 Belle Glade Road
The third shooting occurred at a convenience store located at 750 Belle Glade Road.
An adult male was shot during this incident and transported for medical treatment. Officials report the victim is expected to survive.
While responding to the reported gunfire on Doveland Drive and conducting a preliminary investigation, a PBSO deputy was securing the area with crime scene tape when McCloud allegedly drove a black GMC SUV directly at the deputy.
Authorities state that McCloud struck the deputy with the vehicle, pushing him approximately 40 feet. After exiting the SUV armed with a firearm, McCloud allegedly attempted to shoot the injured deputy.
In response, the deputy discharged his service weapon, striking McCloud. A second PBSO deputy also discharged his firearm during the encounter. McCloud was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The injured deputy sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment at St. Mary’s Medical Center.
According to PBSO, Charles McCloud Jr. had an extensive criminal history, including prior charges for Riot, Resisting an Officer with Violence, Armed Robbery, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Narcotics Equipment/Possession, and Escape or Attempted Escape from a county facility.
In accordance with standard agency policy, the deputy involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
The FDLE, the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office, and PBSO’s Violent Crimes Division continue to actively investigate all aspects of the shootings, including the deputy-involved use of force.
Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
