Patrolman Bryan Verkler and Corporal Thomas Roberts were shot and killed after they responded to a call of shots being fired on Battell Street.

   During a dispute with a neighbor, a man fired several rounds into the air prompting residents to call the police. When Patrolman Verkler and Corporal Roberts arrived, they were led to a house where the subject was hiding.

   The officers attempted to lure the subject out. When the man exited the house, he opened fire on the officers, striking them both. A third officer was able to return fire and shot the suspect once.

   Corporal Roberts died at the scene and Patrolman Verkler was transported to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center where he died two hours later during surgery.

   The 30-year-old suspect subsequently died by suicide.

   Patrolman Verkler had previously served as a special deputy with the St. Joseph County Sheriff's Department for four years.

   He was survived by his wife, brother and parents. Both his brother and father had served as officers with the Walkerton Police Department.