ELKHART, IN — The city of Elkhart is reeling from the tragic loss of 30-year-old Davelle Osby, who was killed in a senseless mass shooting on Sunday, June 15, 2025. The violence, which unfolded during a community gathering late on Saturday night and continued into the early hours of Sunday, has left the city in mourning, particularly on a day meant to honor fathers. Osby’s death, especially on Father’s Day, has struck an emotional chord throughout the city, as residents struggle to comprehend how a life so full of potential was taken too soon.
The shooting took place near the intersection of Middlebury and Prairie Street in Elkhart, just after midnight, when gunfire erupted at what was believed to be a party or community gathering. Multiple 911 calls flooded emergency services, and when police and first responders arrived on the scene, they found several victims. Among them was Davelle Osby, who had suffered life-threatening gunshot wounds. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, he was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The violence left at least four people shot, with the other victims reported to be in stable condition, though their identities and the extent of their injuries have not been publicly released.
In a city already familiar with the scars of gun violence, the shock of losing a young father, especially on Father’s Day, has deeply affected the Elkhart community. “This should’ve been a day he spent with his kids,” said Tanisha Walker, a longtime family friend of Osby. “Instead, his children woke up without their father. It’s a nightmare—and it’s real.”
Davelle Osby, known as a loving and devoted father, was described by friends and family as someone who always worked hard to provide for his family and stay close to his children. He loved music, basketball, and spending time with his kids at the park, and he was actively trying to build a better future for them. Though Osby had made mistakes in his past, those who knew him well noted that he was striving to grow, to become a better man, and to be there for his children. “He had a big heart,” said his cousin, Jamar Osby. “You could see it in the way he looked at his kids. He was always smiling when they were around. He didn’t deserve this. Nobody does.”
The shock and devastation of his death have reverberated not only through his family and friends but throughout the Elkhart community. Local leaders and activists, along with grieving community members, have voiced their frustration and pain over the violence that has continued to plague the area. Rev. Lisa Morton, a local pastor, spoke at a press conference, expressing her sorrow and calling for action. “We are tired of burying young men. Tired of families being broken apart by bullets,” she said. “Davelle was a father. His children now face the rest of their lives without him. When will enough be enough?”
The shooting is not only a personal tragedy but also a symbol of the growing gun violence crisis in the United States. While police have not yet released a motive, there is a strong sense of urgency in the community to find those responsible for the shooting. According to Elkhart Police Chief Chris Snyder, “We are treating this as a top-priority investigation. Our detectives are working nonstop to find those responsible. We urge the public to help us— even the smallest tip can lead to justice.”
At present, the suspects are still at large, and investigators are doing everything they can to piece together the events that led to the shooting. The authorities are reviewing nearby surveillance footage and collecting witness statements to gather more information. They have requested anyone with information about the incident, especially those who may have seen or heard anything suspicious, to come forward. Those with video footage of the incident are particularly encouraged to share it with police to help identify the suspects. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Michiana Crime Stoppers or directly to the Elkhart Police Department.
Community leaders have rallied in support of Osby’s family, with plans for a candlelight vigil scheduled for later this week at McNaughton Park. The vigil will offer a chance for residents to come together, mourn, and speak out against the ongoing violence that continues to affect Elkhart. The memorial will not only serve to honor Osby’s life and legacy but will also stand as a powerful statement against gun violence in the community.
“I think we need to come together as a community and make sure this doesn’t happen again,” said community activist Lisa Hughes. “We need to do more to stop this violence, and we need to make sure that Davelle’s children and family are supported through this loss.”
In the wake of the shooting, the family has expressed their heartbreak over the loss of a father, son, and friend who was loved by so many. In addition to the vigil, the family has set up a memorial fund to assist with funeral expenses and provide ongoing support for Osby’s children. Family members have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the community during this incredibly difficult time.
As the investigation continues, the family, the community, and the authorities are determined to find those responsible for this tragic loss. While the pain of Davelle Osby’s death will never fully dissipate, the legacy of his love for his children, his community, and his family will continue to live on. The tragedy of Father’s Day will forever be marked by his absence, but his spirit and memory will remain a driving force in the fight for justice.
Davelle Osby’s death is a stark reminder of the rampant gun violence that continues to plague communities across the country. It highlights the devastating impact of senseless violence on individuals, families, and neighborhoods. His passing is a call to action for those who seek change, and his memory will inspire continued efforts to make Elkhart and other communities safer.
In the wake of this tragedy, the call for justice and reform remains strong. As the investigation unfolds, the Elkhart community stands united in its demand for accountability and an end to the violence that continues to take lives too soon.
Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact the Elkhart Police Department at (574) 295-7070 or to submit anonymous tips through Michiana Crime Stoppers at (574) 288-STOP. The pain of this loss will forever linger in the hearts of those who loved Davelle Osby, but the hope for justice and healing continues to shine through in the wake of his tragic death.
Rest in peace, Davelle. Your life mattered, and your love lives on in the hearts of your children, family, and the entire Elkhart community.
