A confrontation on Indianapolis’ north side turned deadly when police shot and killed a 35-year-old man accused of pointing a gun at people and threatening to fire. The Marion County Coroner’s Office later identified him as Lemar Brandon Qualls.
The encounter happened on the afternoon of May 2, close to the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Authorities say they received numerous 911 calls about an armed man intimidating residents and pedestrians. Witnesses stated Qualls was seen waving a handgun and warning that he intended to shoot. Officers from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) were dispatched and reached the area within minutes.
Police report that once Qualls was located, they attempted to calm the situation by ordering him to put the weapon down. Investigators say he refused and continued to act in a threatening manner, leading two officers to fire. Qualls was hit, collapsed, and was later taken to Methodist Hospital, where he died from his injuries.
A firearm believed to belong to Qualls was recovered at the scene. No civilians or officers were injured.
IMPD Chief Randal Taylor emphasized that the department treats any incident involving lethal force with seriousness. “Deadly force always raises community questions. That’s why our agency has several levels of review,” Taylor said in a briefing.
The event has prompted several investigations. IMPD’s Critical Incident Response Team is leading the main inquiry, collecting statements, body-worn camera footage, and forensic evidence. Internal Affairs is also reviewing whether the officers followed department rules. Additionally, the case will be presented to the Use of Force Review Board, which includes civilian members and holds public hearings whenever fatal force is used.
Both officers involved have been placed on administrative leave while the reviews take place. Their names have not yet been released.
Community responses have varied. Some residents expressed relief that officers intervened quickly, while others raised concerns about law enforcement’s reliance on lethal force. Activist groups are demanding transparency and the prompt release of all body-camera recordings.
For neighbors who witnessed the chaos, the incident was frightening. One resident, who did not want to be identified, said: “It was scary. He was waving the gun around, and people didn’t know what to do. I’m thankful no one else was hurt, but it’s tragic it ended like this.”
IMPD said more information will be shared as evidence is processed. For now, officials are urging the public to allow the investigations to play out.
Qualls’ death adds to ongoing debates in Indianapolis over policing, use of force, and community trust.
