Hammond Shooting: Man Charged with Murder

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Monday, March 23rd 2026 at 21:49 GMT by The Times of Northwest Indiana
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Hammond Shooting: Demetrius Jamison Charged with Murder, Raising Questions About Rising Violence

HAMMOND, IN - Demetrius Jamison, a 32-year-old man from Gary, Indiana, has been formally charged with murder following a shooting that claimed the life of 28-year-old DeAnthony Harris on Sunday, March 23rd, 2026. The incident, which occurred near a business on Calumet Avenue in Hammond, has sent ripples of concern through the community and prompted a deeper look into escalating violence in the region.

According to Hammond Police Department reports, officers responded to a call regarding gunfire at approximately 9:30 p.m. Upon arrival, they discovered Harris deceased at the scene. Jamison was quickly apprehended and remains held without bail, as detailed in the probable cause affidavit.

The affidavit indicates that witnesses present at the time of the shooting positively identified Jamison as the perpetrator. While police have established a clear suspect, the motive behind the fatal shooting remains under active investigation. Authorities have stated that Jamison and Harris were known to each other, suggesting the incident wasn't a random act of violence, but rather one stemming from a pre-existing relationship - be it personal or otherwise.

This tragedy adds to a concerning trend of violence affecting Northwest Indiana. Local crime statistics, though still being compiled for the first quarter of 2026, indicate a potential 15% increase in aggravated assaults and homicides compared to the same period last year. While pinpointing a single cause is complex, experts point to a confluence of factors, including economic hardship in some areas, the proliferation of illegal firearms, and strains on social services.

"We're seeing a worrying pattern," commented Dr. Evelyn Reed, a criminologist at Purdue University Northwest. "Economic disparities create desperation, and easy access to weapons exacerbates conflict. It's a volatile combination, and communities like Hammond and Gary are unfortunately bearing the brunt of it."

The shooting on Calumet Avenue is not an isolated incident. Just last month, a similar altercation in Gary resulted in serious injuries, and a string of armed robberies has plagued businesses throughout Lake County. These incidents have led to increased calls for community policing initiatives, improved mental health support, and targeted programs aimed at addressing the root causes of crime.

Hammond Mayor Thomas Miller addressed the community earlier today, stating, "The loss of DeAnthony Harris is a tragedy, and our thoughts are with his family and friends. We are committed to working tirelessly with the Hammond Police Department and our community partners to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. We will not tolerate violence in our city."

Jamison is scheduled to be arraigned on Monday, where he will formally enter a plea. The Lake County Prosecutor's Office has indicated they will pursue the maximum penalty allowable under Indiana law. The investigation remains ongoing, with detectives actively seeking any additional information that might shed light on the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

The Hammond Police Department is urging anyone with information to come forward. Individuals can contact the department at 219-660-2600. The department has also established an anonymous tip line through their website to encourage those hesitant to identify themselves to provide crucial details. This case serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive challenges facing communities grappling with violence, and the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address these complex issues. Beyond law enforcement efforts, a renewed focus on preventative measures, community engagement, and social support systems will be critical in fostering a safer future for Hammond and the surrounding areas.