(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Sheriff's deputies in Northwest Indiana say they've now joined the investigation of a fatal shooting by police in Gary.
The Lake County Sheriff's office says Gary police were taking part in what's being called an undercover investigation on Maryland Street near East 34th Avenue just before 12:20 p.m. when they say a suspect attacked an officer with a machete.
Detectives say a 21-year-old man was shot and later died at a hospital.
Gary's Police Chief Derrick Cannon said officers were investigating a rash of robberies targeting people trying to buy items advertised on social media.
As part of the investigation, an undercover officer set up a meeting to buy an item from a suspect. During the meeting, the suspect attempted to rob the officer and police say he attacked him with a machete.
The react team of the operation engaged with the suspect, who police say continued to act violently. Police say that is what led to an officer shooting the man.
The undercover officer suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at a hospital.
Gary Police used a press conference to provide tips to the community on how to stay safe when buying things from people online.
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