Indianapolis, Indiana — A tragic domestic disturbance escalated into a dramatic city-wide chase and shootout on the morning of July 24, 2025, leaving one woman dead and a 76-year-old suspect fatally wounded after exchanging gunfire with police officers across multiple neighborhoods.
A Domestic Call Turns Deadly
At approximately 7:20 a.m., officers with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department’s East District were dispatched to the 4800 block of North Ritter Avenue following reports of a person shot. When officers arrived, they discovered a woman suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency personnel transported her to a nearby hospital, but she was later pronounced dead.
Detectives quickly determined that the shooting stemmed from a domestic disturbance. Witnesses at the scene provided investigators with a description of the suspect, later identified as 76-year-old Walter McNary, as well as the vehicle he used to flee the area.
High-Speed Pursuit Across the City
Just before 8:00 a.m., North District officers located McNary driving the vehicle described by witnesses in the 3300 block of Boulevard Place. Officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but McNary refused to pull over, triggering a dangerous pursuit through the city streets.
The chase quickly escalated into a violent exchange of gunfire. According to IMPD, McNary stopped near West 29th Street and opened fire on Officer Robinson, who responded by firing his service weapon from inside his patrol vehicle.
As the pursuit continued, McNary fired additional shots at officers stationed at intersections along his path, including one officer traveling south on East Riverside Drive and another driving west on Congress Avenue. Despite the heavy gunfire, no officers were struck.
The Final Standoff
The chase reached its climax near Clifton Street and West Congress Avenue, where McNary slowed his vehicle and fired once more at pursuing officers. Officer Robinson stopped his patrol car, opened his door, and returned fire with his patrol rifle.
McNary eventually pulled into a private property, exited his vehicle, and briefly disappeared from sight. Moments later, he emerged from behind a wall and pointed a firearm directly at Officer Robinson. In response, Robinson discharged multiple rounds from his patrol rifle.
Taking cover near the passenger side door of his vehicle, Robinson fired again as McNary continued to pose a lethal threat. Meanwhile, IMPD SWAT officers were deployed to the scene. Using a bulletproof vehicle for cover, they cautiously advanced toward McNary, who lay near his rifle and failed to comply with commands.
When repeated verbal commands failed, officers deployed a flashbang device to disorient him. Receiving no response, SWAT officers moved in and successfully took McNary into custody. Medical aid was rendered on scene until Indianapolis EMS personnel arrived. McNary was transported to the hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
Weapons Recovered and Aftermath
Investigators recovered a rifle lying on the ground next to McNary and a handgun inside his vehicle. At least two IMPD patrol vehicles sustained bullet damage during the incident. Despite the intensity of the gun battle and the multiple exchanges of fire, no officers or uninvolved civilians were physically injured.
“This was a dangerous and volatile situation that could have ended far worse,” an IMPD spokesperson stated. “We are grateful that none of our officers or community members were harmed, and we extend our deepest condolences to the family of the female victim whose life was tragically taken earlier that morning.”
Authorities have confirmed that the investigation remains active. Detectives are working to piece together the full sequence of events, including McNary’s motives and background leading up to the deadly domestic incident.
A City Shaken But Relieved
The dramatic pursuit and gunfire rattled neighborhoods across Indianapolis as residents awoke to the sound of sirens, helicopters, and gunshots echoing through the morning. Many expressed relief that police were able to contain the threat without further casualties, though the tragedy of the victim and the violent standoff will not soon be forgotten.
As the case moves forward, IMPD has pledged transparency and announced that body-worn camera footage, along with other evidence, will be reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
