Shooting Involving Indiana Sheriff’s Deputy
An Indiana sheriff’s deputy was shot three times earlier today when he stopped to assist a motorist. This incident occurred in a hospital emergency room, with officials now exploring a potential link to a previous crime involving the motorist, identified as Sharrod Grafton Jr.
Deputy John Samuelson, who has been with the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Department for 12 years, was airlifted to South Bend Memorial Hospital, where he is currently in critical condition.
Reports indicate that Samuelson, 33, was en route to a training session around 6:45 a.m. when he encountered Grafton, who was stranded along State Route 2. Following Grafton’s request, Samuelson took him to Francisco Hospital in Michigan City.
Upon their arrival, officers discovered that Grafton may have been associated with a prior criminal case, according to Sergeant Glenn Fifield of the Indiana State Police.
Fifield explained, “A confrontation broke out between the deputy and the suspect in the emergency department, during which the suspect drew a firearm and shot Samuelson.” Details on the nature of Grafton’s suspected crimes remain unclear.
After the shooting, Grafton fled into nearby woods but was apprehended shortly thereafter. Police recovered a handgun believed to belong to Grafton at the scene.
“It’s a senseless act that could have been avoided,” Fifield commented, emphasizing the daily risks faced by officers. “This officer was simply trying to assist someone in need.”
Samuelson, who has no children and is married, comes from a law enforcement family; his grandfather serves as the police chief in LaPorte, and his father is a former officer in Michigan City.
The LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office has labeled the shooting an “isolated incident,” assuring residents that there is no ongoing threat.
Indiana State Police are currently leading the investigation, and Grafton is being held at the Porter County Jail, awaiting charges.
LaPorte County Sheriff Ronald Heag urged the community to support Deputy Samuelson and his family with prayers during this challenging time. Meanwhile, Franciscan Health has stated that patient safety remains a top priority, maintaining an ambulance bypass but allowing walk-in patients at their main entrance. The on-site clinic has been closed, though other services continue to operate normally.
