Fort Wayne, Indiana – Preston Jermere Church, a 19-year-old resident, has been identified as the victim of a fatal shooting that occurred on the south side of Fort Wayne on October 3, 2024.
The tragic incident marks the 35th homicide in Allen County this year, as reported by the Allen County Coroner’s Office.
At approximately 8:30 p.m., the Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD) responded to reports of gunfire on Waycross Drive, where they found Preston suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
He was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, but despite the medical team’s efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
An autopsy confirmed that the cause of death was homicide.
Authorities have yet to release further details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and no information regarding suspects has been made available.
The investigation remains ongoing as detectives work diligently to gather more evidence and uncover leads.
Local law enforcement continues to stress the importance of community vigilance and urges anyone with relevant information to come forward.
Friends, family, and the Fort Wayne community are mourning the loss of a young life, with funeral arrangements for Preston Jermere Church expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.