Gary, IN – Authorities Identify Victim of Fatal Shooting as Antwan Tyler Levell Williams, 27, of Lafayette, Indiana

Gary, IN – Authorities Identify Victim of Fatal Shooting as Antwan Tyler Levell Williams, 27, of Lafayette, Indiana

GARY, IN – The city of Gary, Indiana, was shaken early Saturday morning, July 26, 2025, after the tragic fatal shooting of 27-year-old Antwan Tyler Levell Williams from Lafayette, Indiana. Williams was found with multiple gunshot wounds in the area near the 2000 block of Jefferson Street in Gary. Despite immediate efforts to provide medical assistance, Williams was pronounced dead at the scene, sending shockwaves through both the Gary and Lafayette communities.

Authorities are working diligently to piece together the details surrounding the shooting, but as of now, no suspects have been publicly identified. The incident is currently under investigation by the Gary Police Department, with law enforcement officials urging anyone with information to come forward. This tragic event has left both the victim’s family and the local community searching for answers, grappling with the loss of a young life cut short in an act of senseless violence.

The Tragic Incident: July 26, 2025

The incident unfolded just after 2:30 a.m. on July 26, 2025, when Gary police responded to reports of gunshots heard in the vicinity of Jefferson Street. Officers arrived on the scene to find Williams lying unresponsive on the sidewalk, with several gunshot wounds to his upper body. The police immediately secured the area and called for medical personnel, who arrived promptly but were unable to revive him.

Neighbors in the area described hearing multiple gunshots, but many were too afraid to approach or provide details to the police. It wasn’t until a few minutes later that someone called 911, alerting authorities to the victim’s presence.

“The violence we saw that morning is unimaginable,” said Gary Police Chief Leonard Ward. “This is a tragic loss, and we are committed to finding out who is responsible for taking Antwan’s life. We ask the public to assist us in any way possible to ensure justice is served.”

A preliminary investigation suggests that the shooting may have been a targeted attack, but no concrete evidence has yet been found to confirm this theory. Authorities believe the incident is an isolated one, though they continue to explore all possible leads, including whether or not Williams had any known connections to the area.

Who Was Antwan Tyler Levell Williams?

Antwan Tyler Levell Williams, originally from Lafayette, Indiana, was a young man with a promising future ahead of him. Described by friends and family as kind-hearted, hardworking, and driven, Antwan had been living in Lafayette for most of his life before the tragic events unfolded in Gary.

Williams had recently moved to Gary for a short-term work assignment in the construction industry, where he had found employment with a local contractor. Those who knew him say he was eager to build his career and improve his future, even making plans to eventually return to Lafayette and settle down in his hometown.

“He was always so upbeat, so full of life,” said Jasmine Taylor, a close friend of Williams. “It’s hard to believe he’s gone. He had so much potential and so many people who loved him. This just doesn’t feel real.”

Antwan’s family, including his parents, siblings, and extended relatives, have been left devastated by his death. His mother, who spoke with the media, expressed her deep sorrow, calling the loss of her son “a nightmare.” The family described Antwan as a devoted son who worked hard to help support his family and who was loved by everyone who knew him.

“He was a good person, never in trouble, and always doing his best to get ahead,” said Antwan’s mother, Latasha Williams. “He didn’t deserve this. We just want answers. We want to know why this happened to him.”

Antwan had also been an active member of his community in Lafayette, volunteering with local youth programs and helping to organize charitable events. His untimely death has left a hole not only in his family but in the community where he was known for his generosity and positive attitude.

The Investigation: Searching for Answers

The Gary Police Department is leading the investigation into the shooting, with assistance from other local agencies. As of now, police have not disclosed any possible motives for the shooting, and no arrests have been made. Detectives are working to identify any possible witnesses to the crime and are reviewing security footage from nearby businesses and street cameras in hopes of finding clues.

“We are currently pursuing all leads and have a number of potential witnesses to interview,” said Detective Sarah Collins of the Gary Police Department. “However, we need the help of the community to piece together what happened that night. If anyone has information, no matter how small it may seem, we encourage them to come forward. Any bit of information could help us.”

Authorities are also exploring whether Williams had any prior connections to the area that could shed light on the motives behind the shooting. Preliminary reports indicate that Williams had no criminal history and had no known conflicts in the Gary area.

Several individuals who knew Antwan in Lafayette have expressed their shock at hearing the news of his death, some of whom have speculated that the shooting could have been a random act of violence. Others have raised concerns about the increasing levels of violence in cities across the United States, pointing to the growing issue of gun-related crimes and the toll it takes on communities like Gary.

“We just don’t understand why this would happen,” said one of Antwan’s childhood friends, Marcus Owens. “He wasn’t in any gangs, he wasn’t involved in anything that would’ve put him at risk. This just doesn’t make sense. It’s heartbreaking.”

The Gary Police Department has increased patrols in the area surrounding Jefferson Street, as they continue to investigate the circumstances of the shooting. Local authorities are also working in close coordination with federal agencies to ensure that all possible angles are covered in this complex case.

The Community’s Response: Mourning and Support

The loss of Antwan Williams has had a profound impact on both the Gary and Lafayette communities, leaving many in a state of mourning and disbelief. A memorial service for Williams is being planned in Lafayette, where friends, family, and members of the community will gather to honor his life and legacy. In the meantime, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help cover funeral expenses and support the Williams family during this difficult time.

In Gary, residents are coming together to express their grief and demand justice for the young man whose life was tragically taken too soon. Several local organizations are calling for greater community involvement in efforts to reduce gun violence and improve public safety in the city.

“We cannot let this senseless violence continue,” said Gary resident Yolanda Harris. “This tragedy is a wake-up call. We need to stand together as a community and work toward making our neighborhoods safer for everyone, especially our young people.”

Antwan’s family has also expressed their gratitude for the support they’ve received from the community in the wake of his death. His mother, Latasha, made a heartfelt plea for anyone with information to come forward.

“We just want to know what happened,” she said. “Our son didn’t deserve this. If anyone knows anything, please speak up. Our family needs justice.”

A Promise of Justice

As the investigation continues, the Gary Police Department has pledged to do everything in its power to bring those responsible for the murder of Antwan Tyler Levell Williams to justice. With the community’s support and the cooperation of witnesses, authorities are hopeful that they will be able to uncover the truth behind this senseless killing.

For now, the life of Antwan Williams, a young man full of promise and potential, remains a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the ongoing fight against violence in communities across the country.

As his family and loved ones mourn his loss, the entire community of Lafayette and Gary stands together in support, hoping for answers and striving for justice for a life that was tragically and unjustly taken.

In Loving Memory of Antwan Tyler Levell Williams
Antwan’s life may have been cut short, but his impact on those around him will never be forgotten. He was a son, a brother, a friend, and a hardworking young man who gave so much to his community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.