INDIANAPOLIS — Nine people died and several others were injured in Indianapolis from gun violence between Thursday afternoon and Monday morning.
"It makes no sense really. There is no rhyme or reason to any of this," IMPD Police Chief Randal Taylor said.
City leaders said they just want people to put the guns down.
"It's a tragic weekend, and my heart goes out to all those families who were adversely impacted by this mindless menace of gun violence," Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said.
Taylor said they work with other city agencies, like the Office of Public Health and Safety, and hope to mediate a situation before the violence happens.
"There are different ways for conflict resolution than picking up a gun," Tony Lopez, the Deputy Director of OPHS said.
OPHS said they partner with groups around the city to work with people who are around gun violence.
"What we're trying to do is create a safe space for people to come talk to us, to tell us what is the issue and what do you need that will prevent you from picking up that gun?," Lauren Rodriguez, the Director of OPHS said.
Chief Taylor said IMPD's role in the violence is reactionary.
"I can't predict when someone is going to be at the point where they have to stab someone or shoot somebody," Taylor said. "We would much rather you make that decision not to do those things before they do it."
As violent as the recent days have been, Indianapolis is still behind last year in terms of homicides. 68 this year compared to 79 at this time last year.
"We wake up every morning doing everything we can to make today safer than yesterday and tomorrow safer than today," Hogsett said.
-
Digs Garden Center is a unique destination nestled near Indy's North Split.
Digs Garden Center is located in the North Mass Creative and Commercial Corridor. Once dominated by industry, it’s an area that’s now home to more people-focused businesses.Franklin College freshmen move in as enrollment approaches 1,000 students
Franklin freshmen moved in Wednesday afternoon in preparation for their first classes next week. Incoming students say they were drawn to Franklin College because of its small class experience.Indiana Forest Alliance urging City to purchase urban forests
The DPW budget has nearly $4.5 million dollars dedicated to strategic land acquisition, but there are limits to the land they can purchase.Latest numbers show decrease in veteran homelessness in Indianapolis
Indianapolis is seeing an overall increase in the number of people experiencing homelessness, but the most recent numbers show there are fewer veterans on the streets.