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Summary: Brian Elliott, 33, a dedicated police officer, was fatally shot while responding to a domestic call in Beech Grove, Indiana, on February 16, 2026. Elliott and a partner entered an apartment after hearing pleas for help, only to face gunfire from suspect Kenneth T. Johnson, 47. The other officer, wounded in the leg, survived after treatment. Johnson fled but was captured hours later following a widespread alert. Community members mourned Elliott, a local graduate known for his kindness, with tributes at the station, reports say.
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BEECH GROVE, Ind. (DailyKenn.com) — A local police officer died after being shot during a response to a domestic disturbance, prompting an outpouring of grief from the tight-knit community he served.
Authorities reported that Brian Elliott, 33, a two-year veteran of the Beech Grove Police Department, was killed Monday evening in an exchange of gunfire at an apartment complex. The incident began around 5:45 p.m. when Elliott and a fellow officer arrived at a unit on Diplomat Court following reports of a heated argument inside.
Police said the officers knocked and identified themselves at the door. Moments later, they heard a woman's cries for help from within the residence. Elliott then forced entry by kicking in the door to assist the individual in distress. That's when the suspect inside opened fire, striking both officers.
Elliott sustained critical wounds and was rushed to Eskenazi Hospital in Indianapolis, where medical teams worked urgently to save him. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead later that night. The second officer, hit in the leg, received treatment and was released in stable condition, according to department officials.
The shooter, identified by investigators as 47-year-old Kenneth T. Johnson, escaped on foot immediately after the attack. A coordinated manhunt involving Indiana State Police, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department SWAT teams, and other agencies followed. Authorities issued a statewide Blue Alert to warn the public of the armed and dangerous individual. Johnson was located hiding in a nearby apartment building and taken into custody without resistance around 10 p.m.
Retired law enforcement leaders familiar with such calls highlighted the inherent risks, noting that domestic disputes often involve intense emotions and unpredictable actions. One former chief described the doorway breach as a particularly vulnerable moment for responders, emphasizing officers' commitment to protecting those in immediate peril despite the dangers.
Elliott, a lifelong Beech Grove resident and high school graduate, had pursued a career in public safety from an early age. He earned a criminal justice degree from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis and previously worked with the Marion County Sheriff's Office before joining his hometown force. Colleagues remembered him as always approachable, with a ready smile, and dedicated to community service. He leaves behind his wife, Erin, and parents.
In the aftermath, residents expressed shock and sorrow over the loss in their quiet suburb. Community members gathered at a makeshift memorial outside the police station, leaving flowers, notes, and symbols of support on Elliott's patrol vehicle. One local described the tragedy as a profound blow to the close community, while another praised Elliott's character, saying he treated everyone like family. Businesses contributed by distributing stickers honoring the fallen officer, and city leaders vowed to rally together.
A candlelight vigil is set for Wednesday evening at the department headquarters to remember Elliott's sacrifice. Formal charges against Johnson are expected as the Indiana State Police investigation proceeds.
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