An individual involved in a police pursuit that ended in a fatal crash last week in Allen County died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to updated information released by the Indiana State Police and the Allen County Coroner’s Office.
Troopers were initially alerted shortly after 12:15 p.m. May 13 to reports of an armed person believed to be contemplating self-harm while driving toward Columbia City. Indiana State Police later located the vehicle on U.S. 30 near County Road 300 East in Whitley County and attempted a traffic stop to check on the driver’s welfare.
Police said the driver refused to stop and fled eastbound on U.S. 30 into Allen County. During the pursuit, the vehicle left the roadway near Butt Road and struck a tree.
The driver, who was the vehicle’s sole occupant, was pronounced dead at the scene. The man was identified as Erik Kendrick, 34, of Berne.
Investigators said the Allen County Coroner’s Office has ruled the death a suicide caused by a gunshot wound to the head. Authorities indicated the gunshot led to the crash.
Indiana State Police said the investigation remains ongoing. The coroner’s office will handle any additional questions regarding the victim’s identity and cause of death.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, help is available by calling or texting 988.
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