For Immediate Release Contact: Lt. Brian Phillips
January 8, 2019 lphillips@lafayette.in.gov
(765) 807-1224
Officer Involved Shooting
Update:
The Lafayette Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident from earlier today where an officer was shot in the line of duty. The Officer, Lane Butler, Badge #409, is a three year veteran of the LPD. She is currently listed in serious, but stable, condition. Officer Butler is an amazing public servant and is a dedicated and valued member of our agency. She is demonstrating tremendous courage and strength and she fights to recover from her injury.
Earlier today officers of the Lafayette Police Department were conducting an investigation that led them to 813 N. 9th St. During the course of this investigation it was determined that a subject who was wanted on a warrant was possibly residing or visiting the apartment. The homeowner was very cooperative and allowed officers to search her apartment to show them the wanted person was not there. Inside of this residence was a very large dog. The dog was confined to a cage and the resident verified this for officers before the officers entered the home.
Three officers entered the apartment to search for the wanted subject. During the course of their search the dog broke free from the cage, which caused the officers to flee the apartment to avoid a confrontation with the animal. As they fled out the door a round was discharged from one of the officer’s firearms. The round traveled through the apartment door and struck Officer Butler in the back. Officer Butler was wearing a protective vest, however, the round struck her above the protected area.
Officer Butler was transported to a local hospital for treatment where she is in serious, but stable, condition. As reported earlier, we have initiated an internal investigation to evaluate all of the evidence and circumstances surrounding this incident. This investigation continues. We anticipate on concluding the initial phase of the investigation by Wednesday, upon which we will update this release with the names of other officers on scene.
Once the investigation is completed, a shooting review board will be convened. Preliminarily, this will take place this Thursday, January 11th. All facts and circumstances will be evaluated during this investigation and subsequent hearing, which will include review of body worn camera footage from all officers involved.
We are very grateful for the outpouring of support. Citizens from our community and from around the state and nationally have offered their prayers and support. The Lafayette Police Department asks for your continued support for our officers and prayers for a speedy and full recovery for Officer Butler and comfort for her family. This incident, while incredibly unusual and unfortunate, highlights the risks that officers face during the daily execution of their duties to keep our communities safe.
Patrick J. Flannelly
Chief of Police
Lafayette (IN) Police Department