Jorge Meza dies in fatal Michigan City, Indiana police shooting

Jorge Meza dies in fatal Michigan City, Indiana police shooting

Fatal Michigan City, Indiana police shooting death of Jorge Meza – Obituary

Jorge Meza was shot and killed by a Michigan City police officer following a traffic stop incident that escalated into a foot chase and armed confrontation on April 4, 2025. The shooting has been deemed legally justified by Jasper County Prosecutor Jacob Taulman.

The encounter began around 5:20 p.m. near the Walmart on Franklin Street, where a Michigan City officer pulled over a Dodge Journey for driving without headlights during low visibility conditions. The vehicle’s occupants provided identification, and Meza gave the name “Jose Martinez” — a name linked to several active arrest warrants.

As the officer attempted to verify the identity, Meza fled on foot. Several officers joined the chase, during which Meza was seen drawing a handgun and pointing it at law enforcement. He continued fleeing through parking lots and into a business area where, according to reports, he turned to face an officer and aimed the weapon using both hands.

Fearing for his safety, the officer opened fire, hitting Meza. As Meza reached toward the fallen gun, the officer discharged his weapon a second time. Emergency responders provided aid, and Meza was transported to a hospital, where he later died.

Investigators recovered a loaded 9mm handgun at the scene and determined that Meza had attempted to fire it, but it malfunctioned. The Indiana State Police conducted an independent review of the case and presented their findings to the Jasper County Prosecutor’s Office.

Based on the evidence, including the perceived immediate threat to the officer’s life, Prosecutor Taulman concluded that the use of deadly force was permitted under Indiana statutes. The case has since been closed with no charges filed.