Washington, Indiana – A deadly shooting in a residential area of Washington on Saturday afternoon has left one man dead and another in police custody. Authorities say a 21-year-old suspect was arrested at the scene and now faces a murder charge following a rapid multi-agency response.
Incident Overview
The shooting occurred during the afternoon hours of Saturday, February 7, 2026, in the area of Southwest 1st Street and Dewey Avenue. Police say emergency calls reported multiple gunshots and at least one person injured, prompting immediate dispatch of first responders.
Upon arrival, officers located a male victim suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite emergency efforts, the victim later succumbed to his injuries.
Timeline of Events
According to law enforcement, the sequence of events unfolded quickly:
- At approximately 3:33 p.m., dispatch received reports of shots fired.
- Officers and emergency medical personnel were sent to the scene within minutes.
- A male victim was found with critical injuries.
- The victim was later pronounced deceased.
- A suspect was detained at the scene without further incident.
The area was secured as investigators began collecting evidence and interviewing individuals present at the time of the shooting.
Victim Identification
Authorities identified the victim as Phillip Waggoner, 51, of Washington. The Daviess County Coroner’s Office confirmed his death later that afternoon. No additional details regarding the victim’s background or relationship to the suspect have been released at this time.
Suspect and Charges
Police identified the suspect as Ashton Baxter, 21, who was taken into custody at the scene. Following a preliminary investigation, Baxter was formally arrested and charged with:
- Murder
- Criminal Recklessness with a Deadly Weapon
Officials have not yet disclosed a possible motive or whether the shooting was the result of an ongoing dispute. Baxter is currently being held as the case moves through the judicial process.
Details From Police and Officials
Investigators stated that early reports indicated multiple shots were fired, though authorities have not confirmed how many rounds struck the victim. Law enforcement continues to process the scene, review physical evidence, and analyze statements gathered during the initial response.
Police emphasized that the investigation remains active and that additional charges could be filed depending on the findings.
Agencies Involved in the Investigation
Several local and state agencies assisted in the response and investigation, highlighting the seriousness of the incident. Those involved include:
- Washington Police Department
- Daviess County Sheriff’s Office
- Indiana State Police
- Washington City Fire Department
- DCH EMS
- Daviess County Prosecutor’s Office
- Daviess County Coroner’s Office
- Daviess County Central Dispatch
Authorities credited the coordinated response with ensuring the suspect was quickly detained and no further injuries occurred.
Community Impact and Public Safety
Incidents involving firearms in residential neighborhoods often raise concerns about public safety and community well-being. Law enforcement officials urge residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious behavior promptly, and avoid confrontations that could escalate into violence.
Community leaders stress the importance of conflict resolution, mental health awareness, and responsible firearm handling to help prevent similar tragedies.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have not indicated whether additional suspects are being sought or if the shooting was isolated to those directly involved. Officials say more information will be released as the investigation progresses and court proceedings begin.
Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact local authorities to assist with the ongoing investigation.
Conclusion
The fatal shooting in Washington has resulted in the loss of Phillip Waggoner, 51, and the arrest of Ashton Baxter, 21, who now faces serious felony charges. As investigators continue their work, the case underscores the lasting consequences of gun violence on families and communities.
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