MERRILLVILLE, IN – Two people are dead following a Saturday morning shooting at a Luke gas station in Merrillville, an incident that authorities have now confirmed as a murder-suicide stemming from a domestic dispute.
The Merrillville Police Department responded to reports of gunfire at the Luke gas station, located at 721 W. Lincoln Highway, just west of Interstate 65, at approximately 9:43 a.m.
Upon arrival, officers discovered two individuals deceased inside the store, both suffering fatal gunshot wounds.
Investigators later identified one of the victims as Amanda, the store manager, who had a restraining order against her ex-husband, the suspected shooter.
Police confirmed that the two individuals were known to each other, though the exact circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under investigation.
For several hours, law enforcement officers and officials from the Lake County Coroner’s Office remained on the scene, with police vehicles surrounding the gas station.
The entire premises were cordoned off with yellow police tape, and evidence markers were visible inside the store.
By shortly after noon, coroner’s officials were seen removing the bodies and placing them into a transport vehicle.
Authorities emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public, as this was determined to be a domestic-related incident.
However, law enforcement is continuing to investigate the circumstances that led up to the shooting.
In a statement, the Merrillville Police Department expressed condolences to the victims’ families:
“The Merrillville Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this senseless loss. Our thoughts are with them during this incredibly difficult time.”
A Luke gas station representative stated that there was one other employee inside the store at the time of the shooting, but did not confirm whether they were directly involved in the incident. The company also stated that it would not comment further until law enforcement completes its investigation.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information regarding the case to contact Merrillville Police Detective Alexander Van Rite at [email protected].
This is a developing story, and further details will be provided as they become available.
