Two individuals from Lafayette found themselves behind bars after a shooting incident in Tippecanoe County, with Indiana State Police detailing the arrest following a routine traffic stop. FOX59 reported that the local state trooper made contact with a driver during a stop on County Road 550 East around 1:30 a.m. The conversation with the driver revealed a recent shooting had taken place, with his 2020 Chevrolet Silverado being the target.
The trooper soon noted what was to be a bullet hole in the vehicle's side. An exchange of information between the trooper and driver led to a lookout for the suspected shooters. Following the trail, the Lafayette Police Department engaged with a 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee that fit the description provided, according to a statement obtained by the WTHR.
Once the Lafayette Police Department had pulled over the Jeep, suspicions were raised further as a K-9 unit indicated possible narcotics presence. This lead to a search that yielded not only cocaine but also keys to a Chevrolet Cruze, "per ISP" as mentioned by FOX59. The ensuing investigation directed authorities to an abandoned Cruze near County Road 800 East and State Road 38, where they also discovered a spent bullet casing.
As the investigation unfurled, two Lafayette residents—27-year-old Daniel and Wendy Martinez—were arrested. "Daniel and Wendy Martinez have been charged with criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon and possession of cocaine, respectively," reported by FOX59. Both offenses are classified as Level 6 felonies, carrying a potential maximum sentence of 2.5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
