Plainfield, Indiana — A 54-year-old man suspected in a bank robbery was shot and killed by police on Wednesday afternoon in Plainfield, following a tense standoff that lasted nearly 30 minutes, according to authorities.
The incident unfolded a day after a reported robbery at a local bank, prompting a follow-up investigation by the Plainfield Police Department and Indiana State Police.
What Happened
Police said the situation began Tuesday at around 2:10 p.m., when officers responded to a robbery in progress at a Chase Bank located on Southfield Drive, near the intersection of Quaker Boulevard and Stafford Road. Details about the robbery itself remain limited, and officials have not yet explained how the suspect was definitively linked to the crime.
On Wednesday, officers located a vehicle believed to be connected to the investigation. The suspect, later identified as Dustin R. Horwoth, 54, of Clayton, was driving along U.S. 40 in the rural community of Belleville in Hendricks County when police attempted to stop him.
Authorities used a grappler device to disable the vehicle. Horwoth then exited the car and fled on foot while armed with a handgun, leading officers into a grassy area behind a nearby building.
Standoff and Shooting
According to Indiana State Police, officers spent nearly 20 minutes communicating with Horwoth, attempting to negotiate a peaceful surrender. The situation escalated, ultimately resulting in officers opening fire.
Horwoth was struck during the encounter. Police provided medical aid at the scene before transporting him to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Witness Accounts
A nearby resident reported hearing at least 10 gunshots during the incident. The standoff, from pursuit to gunfire, reportedly lasted around 30 minutes, adding to the tension in the otherwise quiet area.
Investigation Underway
No officers or civilians were injured during the incident. As per standard procedure, the officers involved have been placed on administrative leave while the investigation continues. Authorities confirmed that the officers were equipped with body cameras at the time.
Indiana State Police are leading the investigation into the shooting. Officials have not yet released further details about the sequence of events or what specifically led officers to use deadly force.
The case remains active, and more information is expected as investigators review evidence, including bodycam footage and witness statements.
