27-Year-Old Antwan Williams Identified as Victim in Fatal Gary Shooting, Investigation Ongoing

GARY, IN — A devastating act of violence has claimed the life of a young man from Lafayette, Indiana, as authorities have confirmed the identity of the victim in a fatal shooting that occurred early Saturday morning in Gary. The Lake County Coroner’s Office identified the deceased as 27-year-old Antwan Tyler Levell Williams, whose life was cut short under tragic and senseless circumstances that have left his family and loved ones heartbroken.

According to the Gary Police Department, officers were dispatched shortly after 2:00 a.m. to the area of 15th Avenue and Clark Road following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers discovered Williams unresponsive at the scene, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel attempted life-saving measures, but he was tragically pronounced dead a short time later.

The Lake County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Williams died from gunshot injuries, officially ruling the case a homicide. The exact details surrounding the shooting remain under investigation, and as of now, no suspects have been arrested or publicly identified. Detectives are actively pursuing leads, reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses, and calling on members of the community to come forward with any information that may help solve the case.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Antwan Williams,” said a spokesperson for the Gary Police Department. “This is a painful reminder of the impact gun violence has on individuals, families, and communities. We are committed to bringing justice in this case and are asking anyone with knowledge of what happened to speak up.”

Antwan Williams was more than just another statistic in a rising wave of gun violence. To those who knew him, he was a caring son, a loyal friend, and a young man striving to better his life. Born and raised in Lafayette, Williams was known for his warm heart, easygoing nature, and genuine desire to lift others up. Friends describe him as someone who could make anyone laugh and had a way of bringing calm to chaos — a rare and valued presence in their lives.

“He had the biggest heart,” said a childhood friend. “Antwan had been through a lot, but he never let it harden him. He was always looking for a better path, always willing to help others, and always had time for his family.”

Family members, still in shock from the sudden loss, have asked for privacy as they mourn the death of their beloved son, brother, and cousin. They have also expressed gratitude for the support they’ve received and are urging the public to assist law enforcement by sharing any information related to the case.

“Antwan was loved. He had dreams, goals, and a future. Whoever did this took all of that away — not just from him, but from everyone who loved him,” said a relative. “We’re begging anyone who knows something to do the right thing.”

The incident has sparked renewed concern across Northwest Indiana about the ongoing gun violence plaguing communities like Gary, where shootings continue to claim the lives of young people with alarming frequency. Activists and community leaders are once again calling for increased efforts to address the root causes of violence — from poverty and lack of opportunity to access to firearms and insufficient support systems for at-risk individuals.

Local organizations are also rallying to support Williams’ family and highlight the need for greater investment in youth outreach, mental health services, and violence prevention programs.

A candlelight vigil in Antwan’s memory is being organized by friends in Lafayette, with plans for a public memorial service to be held later this week. Community members are encouraged to attend and honor the life of a man whose time was stolen far too soon.

Anyone with information related to the fatal shooting is urged to contact the Gary Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit at (219) 881-1210 or Crime Stoppers of Northwest Indiana at (800) 782-7463. Tips can be submitted anonymously.

As the investigation continues, the pain of this loss reverberates far beyond the crime scene — touching the hearts of every person who knew and loved Antwan Williams. In the face of tragedy, his memory remains a beacon of the joy, strength, and hope he brought into the world.

Rest in peace, Antwan Tyler Levell Williams. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered.