A LaPorte County sheriff’s deputy was critically injured after being shot inside a hospital emergency room in Michigan City on Friday morning, according to authorities.
The injured officer has been identified as Deputy Jon Samuelson of the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office. Officials with the Indiana State Police said the incident unfolded after Samuelson encountered a man he believed to be a stranded motorist.
According to investigators, the suspect requested transportation to a hospital, and the deputy took him to the emergency room at Franciscan Health Michigan City. While inside the hospital, authorities said the suspect opened fire, shooting Deputy Samuelson three times.
Emergency responders rushed the deputy to a nearby hospital before he was later transferred to Memorial Hospital in South Bend for advanced treatment. Officials described his injuries as critical.
Police identified the suspect as 22-year-old Sharod Grafton Jr. of Chicago, Illinois. He was taken into custody following the shooting and booked into the LaPorte County Jail. Authorities stated he is expected to be transferred to the Porter County Jail as the investigation continues.
Law enforcement agencies quickly responded to the hospital following the shooting, securing the scene and confirming there was no longer an active threat. Franciscan Health later released a statement assuring patients, employees, and community members that the situation had been contained and that there was no ongoing danger inside the facility.
The shooting has shaken both the law enforcement and medical communities across northern Indiana. Residents and fellow officers have begun expressing support and prayers for Deputy Samuelson and his family as he continues receiving medical treatment.
Investigators have not yet released additional details regarding a possible motive or the sequence of events leading up to the shooting. Authorities continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses as part of the ongoing investigation.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers can face even during routine interactions and while assisting members of the public. Additional updates are expected as officials release more information about Deputy Samuelson’s condition and the criminal case against Sharod Grafton Jr.
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