05/26/2026
BREAKING: Trooper Shot During Traffic Stop On I-80/94 Near State Line; Suspect Killed In Exchange Of Gunfire
Preliminary information gathered by Region News Source indicates an Indiana State Trooper initiated a traffic stop on a Hyundai for a minor traffic violation around midnight on I-80/94 near the Indianapolis Boulevard exit.
Shortly after the stop, the trooper reportedly requested additional units after holding two occupants at gunpoint for being non compliant.
According to preliminary information, backup officers from the Hammond Police Department and Lake County Sheriff’s Department responded to assist. During the encounter, the male driver allegedly produced a handgun, leading to an exchange of gunfire involving four officers.
The suspect, identified as a 34-year-old, Aaron Barnes, from Gary, was shot and pronounced deceased at the scene.
An Indiana State Trooper sustained a gunshot wound to the chest during the incident. The trooper was transported by Hammond Police to Community Hospital in Munster before later being transferred in stable condition to the University of Chicago for surgery and additional treatment. Authorities say the trooper is expected to recover.
A truck traveling in the westbound lanes was also reportedly struck by gunfire during the incident. No additional injuries related to that vehicle have been reported at this time.
A 34-year-old female passenger inside the Hyundai was taken into custody. She was not injured.
Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez earlier confirmed deputies responded shortly after midnight to assist Indiana State Police during a traffic stop near eastbound mile marker 2.4 near Indianapolis Boulevard, where shots were fired and an officer-involved shooting investigation is underway.
Martinez stated two Lake County Sheriff’s officers who were not wounded were transported to an area hospital for evaluation and are expected to be medically cleared. In accordance with department policy, those officers will be placed on paid administrative leave.
Indiana State Police are leading the investigation.
Major lane closures in both directions are expected to continue for several hours. Motorists are urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.
This remains preliminary information and details are subject to change as the investigation continues.
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Update - The State Police Trooper has successfully underwent surgery at the University of Chicago Hospital and has since been released. He is now at home recovering. His name will be released in a later update.
