A man was taken into custody at Indianapolis' Monument Circle after reportedly discharging a firearm into the air while waving a flag emblazoned with "Free Haiti". The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) responded to the call just before 4 p.m. yesterday at 1 Monument Circle. Upon arrival, they encountered the man, gun in hand, who had allegedly fired multiple shots upward. FOX59 reported that the officers secured the area, urging the public to steer clear during the ordeal.
Wielding at least one less-lethal launcher, IMPD officers were able to disarm the man, as shared in a statement by the department, covered by WISH-TV. The man was arrested on preliminary charges including criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon and pointing a loaded firearm. The standoff led to the closure of Monument Circle as the officers, who worked carefully to neutralize the situation, collected a firearm and multiple shell casings from the scene.
No bystanders were injured during the incident, according to IMPD. Authorities later asserted the belief that the disturbance was an isolated event, with no additional suspects sought. The Indy Star revealed that the man, during the confrontation, could be heard shouting messages of solidarity with Haiti, proclaiming, "Haitians, we're gonna win soon. Haitians, we're going to be free again."
After the arrest, IMPD emphasized that there was no continuing threat to the public. As police concluded their investigation, Monument Circle remained off-limits for some time.
