UPDATE: A man has been arrested for the death of 62 year old Robert Pulliam Jr…a security guard at the Wayne Street parking garage in downtown South Bend. The St. Joseph County Prosecutor says Derrick Pratcher has been charged with three felony counts, including murder. Sunday night after 11, Mr. Pulliam noticed a suspicious person and activity in the parking garage. Police say an encounter between the two ended with the guard being shot and killed. Pratcher was arrested in Vandalia, Michigan and is currently in the Cass County Jail.
Original story:
South Bend Police have identified the person who was shot and killed last night at the Wayne Street parking Garage. 62-year-old Mr. Robert Pulliam, Jr. was working for a security company contracted by the City of South Bend when he saw a suspicious person in the parking garage. A confrontation between the two led to Mr. Pulliam being shot. Mr. Pulliam was pronounced dead at the scene.
South Bend Mayor James Mueller released this statement in response to the shooting: “Last night's senseless loss of life serves as a stark reminder of the dangers facing our sworn officers and those charged with keeping us safe each day. I am grateful for Robert Pulliam, Jr.'s service to our city and will keep his family and loved ones in my prayers as they mourn this tragic loss. As our Violent Crimes Unit continues its investigation, we must join together as a community to stop gun violence and prevent firearms from getting into the wrong hands.”
Anyone with information is encouraged to Michiana Crime Stoppers at 574-288-STOP.