Fort Wayne Mourns Tragic Loss of Roger Marvin Swedzinski, 67, in Huntertown Shooting
The Allen County community is grappling with grief and disbelief following the shocking and tragic death of Roger Marvin Swedzinski, a 67-year-old Fort Wayne resident whose life was cut short in a senseless act of violence on Saturday morning, July 26, 2025. The incident occurred in the peaceful town of Huntertown, shaking residents and leaving a once-quiet neighborhood haunted by sorrow.
A Sudden Act of Violence
According to the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, officers were dispatched to the 16000 block of Lima Road just before 8:00 a.m. after receiving reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, they discovered Roger Swedzinski suffering from multiple gunshot wounds in what authorities are calling a targeted and deliberate act.
Emergency medical teams attempted life-saving measures, but tragically, Swedzinski was pronounced dead at the scene. His death has since been ruled a homicide, and law enforcement officials have opened a full-scale investigation. As of this writing, no arrests have been made, and detectives are continuing to seek leads and speak with potential witnesses.
The quiet community of Huntertown, known for its close-knit neighborhoods and low crime rate, has been left stunned. Residents say this kind of violence is unheard of in their town, and many have expressed shock that someone so respected and kindhearted could become the victim of such brutality.
Remembering Roger Marvin Swedzinski
Roger Swedzinski was more than just a name in a police report. He was a beloved father, grandfather, friend, neighbor, and longtime Fort Wayne resident who touched countless lives with his warmth, generosity, and steadfast commitment to those he loved.
Born in 1958, Roger spent most of his life in Allen County. He was known by many as a hard-working, dependable man who retired just a few years ago after decades in the manufacturing industry. Former colleagues remember him as a steady presence, someone who always showed up early, gave his all, and treated everyone with respect — from the newest hires to upper management.
Beyond the workplace, Roger was a passionate outdoorsman who loved fishing, gardening, and walking the trails at local parks. He took pride in his backyard, his community, and, above all, his family. Those closest to him say his happiest moments were spent with his grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Grandpa Rog.” He never missed a game, recital, or birthday, and he made it his mission to be a constant source of love and support in their lives.
“He was the heart of our family,” said one relative. “Always smiling, always giving, always putting others before himself. To lose him like this, it’s just unbearable.”
A Community in Mourning
The shockwaves of Roger’s death are being felt throughout Fort Wayne and beyond. Tributes have poured in from friends, former coworkers, neighbors, and church members. Many are struggling to comprehend how such a senseless act of violence could take someone so cherished and non-confrontational.
A candlelight vigil was held Sunday night at a local park, where dozens gathered to honor his memory, share stories, and comfort one another in their collective grief. Attendees described him as a pillar of kindness and a beacon of calm.
“I can’t count the number of times he helped me out, even with the smallest things,” one neighbor shared. “He would shovel snow from your sidewalk without you asking, or bring you vegetables from his garden just because. That was Roger — always thinking of others.”
Seeking Justice
The Allen County Sheriff’s Office has called on the public for assistance in the ongoing investigation. They are urging anyone with information about the events leading up to Saturday morning’s shooting, or who may have seen suspicious activity in the area, to come forward.
“This was a horrific crime, and we are determined to find the person or persons responsible,” said Sheriff David Gladieux. “Roger Swedzinski didn’t deserve this. His family and his community deserve justice.”
Final Arrangements and Legacy
Funeral services for Roger Marvin Swedzinski are being arranged by his family and will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, a memorial fund has been set up in his name to support causes he cared about, including youth sports programs and local wildlife preservation efforts.
Roger’s legacy is one of unwavering kindness, quiet strength, and devoted love for family and community. His life may have been taken, but the impact he made — in gentle gestures, selfless acts, and enduring relationships — will never be forgotten.
As the Fort Wayne community mourns this devastating loss, they are also uniting in resilience and remembrance, vowing to honor Roger’s life by living with the same compassion and integrity that defined his every day.