Davelle Osby Identified as Victim in Elkhart Father’s Day Mass Shooting

Davelle Osby Identified as Victim in Elkhart Father’s Day Mass Shooting

ELKHART, Ind. — A peaceful Father’s Day celebration turned into a devastating tragedy in the early morning hours of Sunday, June 16, when a mass shooting broke out on W. Garfield Avenue in Elkhart, Indiana. The Elkhart Police Department has confirmed that 30-year-old Davelle Osby was killed in the incident. Eleven others were wounded in the shooting, prompting a large-scale investigation by the Elkhart County Homicide Unit.

Authorities responded to multiple 911 calls around 2:00 a.m., arriving on the scene to find a chaotic and horrifying scene: several individuals suffering from gunshot wounds, many crying out for help, and others scrambling to flee. Emergency medical services rushed to stabilize the wounded and transport them to local hospitals.

A Community Shaken

Davelle Osby, the sole fatality in the incident, was pronounced dead at the scene. His death sent shockwaves through the Elkhart community. Known by friends and family as a kind-hearted, loyal man, Davelle’s loss has left a painful void in the lives of those who knew him.

“He was full of life, always smiling, always helping people,” said a family friend. “He didn’t deserve this. No one does.”

Osby’s death, especially on a day meant to celebrate fathers and family bonds, has struck an especially painful chord with many residents. Community leaders and faith groups are calling for peace, unity, and justice.

The Injured: A Mixed Update

According to police, eight of the eleven gunshot wound victims had been treated and released from area hospitals as of Monday morning. The remaining three individuals continue to recover under medical supervision. Authorities have not released their names out of respect for privacy and the ongoing investigation.

Witnesses say the gathering on W. Garfield Avenue was a Father’s Day party attended by dozens of people from the neighborhood. What began as a peaceful celebration quickly devolved into chaos when shots rang out, causing panic and confusion.

Investigation Underway

The Elkhart County Homicide Unit has taken the lead in the investigation, working alongside local law enforcement to identify the shooter or shooters involved. Police have not yet announced any arrests, but they are urging the public to come forward with any information that could help solve the case.

Preliminary reports suggest there may have been multiple shooters, but this has not yet been officially confirmed. Surveillance footage from nearby residences and businesses is being reviewed, and detectives are actively interviewing witnesses.

“We are working diligently to bring those responsible to justice,” said an Elkhart Police Department spokesperson. “This kind of violence has no place in our community.”

Authorities have asked anyone with information to contact the Elkhart Police Department or submit anonymous tips to Michiana Crime Stoppers at (574) 288-STOP.

A City in Mourning

In the aftermath of the shooting, the city of Elkhart is reeling. The mass shooting has become one of the most significant incidents of gun violence in the area in recent memory. As the names and stories of the victims begin to emerge, community members are rallying to support one another in grief and resolve.

Vigils and community meetings are being planned to honor the life of Davelle Osby and to provide support to the families of the injured. Local leaders are also renewing calls for stronger measures to combat gun violence and provide safer public spaces for residents.

“This should never have happened,” said one local pastor. “Elkhart is better than this. We must come together—not only to mourn Davelle and pray for the injured—but to find real solutions that prevent tragedies like this.”

Remembering Davelle Osby

For those who knew Davelle Osby, his memory will not be defined by how he died, but by how he lived. A loving son, a loyal friend, and a valued member of the community, Davelle’s presence brought warmth and joy to those around him.

“He loved his family fiercely,” said a cousin. “He had big dreams and was always looking for ways to help others. That’s how we’ll remember him.”

As the investigation continues and the city searches for healing, Elkhart stands united in grief and in hope—for justice, for peace, and for the safety of its neighborhoods.

Rest in peace, Davelle Osby. Your light lives on in the hearts of many.