ISP Trooper In Weekend Police Action Shooting Identified

COLUMBUS, IN — The Indiana State Police said they're continuing to investigate this past weekend's shooting of Columbus Police Officer Josh McCrary. ISP said the investigation includes the shooting of suspect, 44-year-old Quentin Starke, who was shot by an ISP SWAT team member and died on scene. This was the result on an hours-long pursuit.

ISP said according to the investigation, Officer McCrary attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the Honda Camry that Starke was driving early Saturday morning at 11th and Washington Streets in Columbus.

Starke fled in the vehicle before driving into a field east of State Road 11, south of Columbus. ISP said Starke then shot at Officer McCrary upon stopping and exiting his vehicle, while the officer was still inside the patrol vehicle. ISP reports Officer McCrary was grazed by a bullet which caused injuries to his head, and was treated at Columbus Regional Hospital before being released.

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ISP reports the suspect fled into a wooded area, and shortly after 12 p.m. attempted to shoot 15-year ISP Veteran Trooper Eric Williams (pictured), who was searching the area with other ISP SWAT team members.

RELATED: Indiana State Police Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting

Trooper Williams returned fire, shooting Starke.

After receiving medical attention, Starke died at the scene as a result of the incident.

ISP said an autopsy was completed on Starke at the Greensburg Hospital on Sunday, indicating Starke died as a result of the injuries he sustained when he was shot by Trooper Williams.

Officials said the case will be turned over to the Bartholomew County Prosecutor’s Office for review once the investigation concludes.

Photo credit: Indiana State Police