LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A SWAT standoff in Louisville’s Smoketown neighborhood concluded with one person in custody following a fatal shooting on Saturday morning.
According to Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) spokesman John Bradley, officers responded to a shooting in the 700 block of South Preston Street at approximately 11 a.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered a man who had been fatally shot. The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office later identified the victim as 70-year-old Michael Evans.
The crime scene stretched over two blocks, with police securing the area and launching an investigation into the shooting. Authorities soon identified a possible suspect, who was believed to have entered a residence in the 900 block of South Preston Street. In response, LMPD’s SWAT team was called in to assist in apprehending the individual.
At around 5:19 p.m., Bradley confirmed that a “person of interest” had been taken into custody. The individual was transported to the hospital, though their identity and potential charges have not yet been disclosed. Investigators believe all parties involved in the incident have been accounted for.
Despite the challenges posed by the large crime scene and worsening weather conditions, police worked to manage the situation and continue their investigation. The 900 block of South Preston Street was later reopened to traffic.
Derrick Allison, a resident of Smoketown, expressed his sorrow over the loss of Evans, saying he knew the victim. “It’s a very sad story. He was a cool guy. He’s alright,” said Allison. “I don’t want to say more about the victim.”
As the investigation continues, LMPD has not released further details regarding the circumstances of the shooting or the identity of the suspect.
