09/17/2026
๐๐๐๐ข๐๐๐ซ ๐จ๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐ก - ๐๐ฎ๐ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐๐๐๐
On Tuesday, August 4th, 2026, Officer Joseph Hockstra was driving eastbound on I-70. He observed a vehicle swerving several cars ahead of him, and the vehicle quickly pulled over to the shoulder where a driver and passenger exited the vehicle. Officer Hockstra slowed down and observed one male was bleeding heavily from his leg. Without hesitation, Officer Hockstra pulled over to assist.
As he approached, he was informed the male passenger was shot. Officer Hockstra radioed for EMS and additional officers, and immediately began rendering medical aid. Officer Hockstra applied a tourniquet, slowing the heavy bleeding to a stop. As another officer arrived to assist, Officer Hockstra noticed additional bleeding. Officer Hockstra advised responding officers there may be another injury to the back of the victim. Officers turned him and located an exit wound. Officers were able to apply a bandage to the back of the male, which helped to stabilize him.
Officer Hockstra changed gears and began gathering information. Officer Hockstra was able to identify the driver and victim, gather a possible suspect vehicle description, and what led to the shooting. Indiana State Police troopers arrived on scene and took over the investigation. Officer Hockstra gathered a large amount of information quickly to make the transition of the investigation to the State Police very smooth. Medics arrived on scene and transported the victim to a hospital. A medic assisting the victim praised how well the tourniquet applied by Officer Hockstra was placed and secured. Officer Hockstra's medical aid and calm demeanor with the victim was vital to stopping internal hemorrhaging as well as keeping him relaxed.
For his swift action to help a critically wounded victim, and his outstanding investigative ability during this incident, Officer Joseph Hockstra is recognized as North District's Officer of the Month for August 2026. We greatly appreciate Broad Ripple Post #3 of the American Legion for their support of our Officer of the Month program!