The search for the suspect who shot Orange County Sheriff’s Deputy Zach Andry came to a tragic conclusion on Friday evening, as law enforcement located and killed the shooter, Austin Schepers, during an attempt to apprehend him.
The dramatic events unfolded early Friday morning when Deputy Andry, responding to reports of a Pontiac Grand Prix partially blocking the roadway at the intersection of US 150 and State Road 56, engaged with the driver, identified as 33-year-old Austin Schepers. This seemingly routine traffic stop turned violent when Schepers shot Deputy Andry multiple times, including once in the head, before fleeing the scene with a female passenger.
Reports indicate Schepers didn’t remain on the run for long. Authorities located the abandoned vehicle around 8:00 AM, close to Orangeville, just hours after the shooting. The female passenger, who had been with Schepers, was taken to custody shortly thereafter.
Deputy Andry was quickly found lying injured on the roadway and was rushed to the University of Louisville Hospital, where he underwent surgery later on Friday morning. According to Indiana State Police Master Trooper Philip Hensley, the surgical team was “very pleased with the outcome.” Thankfully, Deputy Andry is currently reported to be recovering, albeit still listed as critically injured.
After the initial search for Schepers, law enforcement conducted extensive investigations, which eventually led them to Wheeler Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky. Around the same time the search was intensifying, law enforcement had already established the threat posed by Schepers was significant due to his actions during the shooting. Fortunately, reports confirmed there is no longer any threat to public safety following the conclusion of the manhunt.
Upon locating Schepers, law enforcement officers confronted him. Details surrounding this confrontation have yet to be completely clarified but it resulted in Schepers being shot and killed at the scene. While many community members remain shaken by the incident, officials have stated they will be forthcoming with details surrounding the confrontation once the investigation permits.
The response from law enforcement to this violent encounter highlights the significant risks faced by deputies and law enforcement officials every day. Orange County Sheriff Davy Henderson has emphasized the need for support from the community during this trying time and expressed gratitude for the public’s positive thoughts and well-wishes directed toward Deputy Andry and his family as he fights for recovery.
Reflecting on the far-reaching impact of such violent incidents, Sheriff Henderson noted, “There’s no longer any threat to public safety,” urging the community to rally together now more than ever.
Despite the unfortunate outcome, recovery may pave the way for healing not just for Deputy Andry, but also for those affected by the tragic events surrounding this harrowing ordeal. With law enforcement's swift action, the community can cautiously breathe easier knowing the immediate danger has been resolved, as investigators continue to work through the details of the case.
The dedication of officers who serve the public is something to be commended. Every day, they risk their lives for the safety of others, and today's events remind us of both the risks they face and the deep appreciation they deserve from the communities they protect.