04/16/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Shelburn Police Department
16 West Mill Street
Shelburn, IN 47879
Date: April 16, 2026
Incident Response Highlights Importance of Training, Collaboration, and Mental Health Awareness
On April 15, 2026, at approximately 8:45 p.m., the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call reporting a male individual who had left his residence barefoot and was believed to be in possession of a rifle. The caller expressed concern for the individual’s well-being.
Chief Matthew Price, of the Shelburn Police Department responded to the call and located the 61-year-old male near the intersection of West Mill Street and Interurban Street. Upon contact, it was confirmed that the individual was in possession of a shotgun.
During the encounter, it became evident that the individual was experiencing a mental health crisis. The subject moved to a pavilion near the Shelburn Community Building, where an event was taking place. Law enforcement immediately prioritized public safety and began a coordinated response.
Officers engaged in calm and deliberate negotiations with the individual for approximately one hour. Through patience, communication, and trained de-escalation techniques, the situation was resolved peacefully. The individual was taken for medical evaluation and treatment. No injuries were reported.
The Shelburn Police Department extends its sincere gratitude to all agencies that responded and assisted in this incident:
• Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office
• Sullivan City Police Department
• Farmersburg Police Department
• Dugger Police Department
• Indiana State Police
• Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
• Shelburn Fire Department
• Sullivan County Ambulance Service
This incident underscores the growing importance of recognizing and addressing mental health challenges within our communities. Proper training, interagency cooperation, and a commitment to de-escalation are critical in shaping positive outcomes during complex situations like this one.
The Shelburn Police Department also reminds the public of the importance of relying on verified information. During this incident, several social media posts circulated that contained inaccurate details, which can lead to unnecessary fear and confusion. We encourage community members to seek information from official sources to ensure accuracy and avoid causing undue stress or panic.
“This situation is a clear example of how training, communication, and teamwork can make all the difference,” said Marshal Matthew Price. “Our officers and partnering agencies handled a very challenging situation with professionalism, patience, and care. Just as importantly, this highlights the reality that mental health crises are becoming more common in our communities. When we approach these situations with the right training and mindset, we can protect the public while also getting individuals the help they need. We are extremely grateful for the coordinated response that led to a safe resolution for everyone involved.”
We are proud of the measured, compassionate, and professional response demonstrated by all officers and first responders involved. Their actions reflect a shared commitment to protecting the community while treating individuals in crisis with dignity and care.
For further information, please contact the Shelburn Police Department.
