Preliminary Autopsy: Winamac Man Died From Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound After Police Pursuit

The Pulaski County Coroner’s Office has identified the man who died following Wednesday’s pursuit and shooting in Winamac as Keith C. Ernest, 56, of Winamac.

Indiana State Police said a preliminary autopsy indicates Ernest died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

The original investigation indicated Ernest exited a Chevrolet Colorado while armed with a firearm after the pursuit ended near Monticello Street and 15th Street. Police said Ernest was believed to have discharged the firearm and an officer at the scene was also believed to have fired their department weapon.

Ernest was transported to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The investigation by detectives with the Indiana State Police Lafayette Post remains active and ongoing. No additional information is available for release at this time.