John Charles Neiswender Death – Officials have identified the individual who was killed by South Bend police officers on Tuesday, but no additional information has been released regarding the events leading up to the shooting. The deceased has been identified as John Charles Neiswender, a 69-year-old man who passed away in the hospital after being shot by a South Bend police officer in the East Race neighborhood. According to investigators, Neiswender was armed with a knife, and the officers attempted to use a Taser on him before resorting to the use of lethal force.
The shooting is currently being investigated by both the St. Joseph County and Mishawaka police departments. St. Joseph County Sheriff Bill Redman has stated that a comprehensive set of documents and body camera footage will be released once the investigation is concluded.
In a statement, Sheriff Redman acknowledged the public’s desire for information and answers but emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the investigation. He stated that specific details regarding the actions of the officers and the suspect will only be released once the investigation is complete and has been reviewed by the County Prosecutor’s Office to ensure accuracy and reliability.
The available information about the incident is limited, consisting of a basic outline provided by the police and some details obtained from scanner traffic. The initial call to the South Bend police reported a man stabbing a city vehicle with a knife in the area around LaSalle and North Niles avenues. Officers later located a man matching the description in a nearby parking lot and attempted to detain him. Despite an unsuccessful attempt to use a Taser, one of the officers ultimately shot Neiswender.
An autopsy has been conducted, and the county police are examining toxicology reports, ballistic evidence, body camera footage, and witness statements as part of their investigation.
South Bend Mayor James Mueller expressed his condolences to John Neiswender’s family and loved ones in a statement released on Wednesday, acknowledging the tragic loss experienced by the community.
