Wayne County, IN— The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a tense and armed encounter ended peacefully earlier this week after a 53-year-old man opened fire while standing in the middle of a roadway in Wayne County, Indiana.
Deputies were called to the intersection of Whitewater Road and Gifford Road on Tuesday evening following reports of a belligerent and intoxicated man. When they arrived, they found a man later identified as Michael Baker, attempting to push his vehicle out of the road.
According to the sheriff’s office, Baker was uncooperative and refused multiple commands to remove his hands from his pockets or identify himself. As additional deputies arrived, Baker continued to walk away despite repeated attempts to de-escalate the situation.
Armed Confrontation Escalates
At one point during the encounter, Baker pulled out a handgun, holding onto it even after repeated orders to drop the weapon. Deputies said Baker made disturbing statements, suggesting he wanted law enforcement officers to use deadly force against him.
“He made several statements suggesting he wanted deputies to use deadly force against him,” said Chief Deputy Alan Moore. “Despite the escalating danger, deputies showed restraint and continued to issue verbal commands while maintaining cover.”
Authorities reported that Baker then fired two rounds from his handgun in the opposite direction of the deputies. No one was injured by the gunfire, as per the reports.
After several tense minutes and continued communication, Baker eventually placed his firearm on the ground.
Deputies Take Action
When Baker began advancing toward deputies while shouting for them to tase him, officers tackled him to the ground and successfully took him into custody without any injuries to Baker or the responding deputies.
According to a news release from the sheriff’s office, the arrest was handled with restraint and professionalism despite the volatile nature of the situation.
Baker was booked into the Wayne County Jail on multiple charges, including:
- Resisting Law Enforcement – Level 6 Felony
- Criminal Recklessness – Class B Misdemeanor
- Public Intoxication – Class B Misdemeanor
Sheriff Commends Deputies’ Restraint
Once at the jail, Baker reportedly became combative with correctional staff. Despite this, the sheriff praised his team for their calm judgment and professionalism throughout the ordeal.
“This was a volatile and potentially deadly situation,” said Sheriff Randy Retter. “The responding deputies demonstrated exceptional judgment, patience, and courage under pressure—resolving it without anyone being harmed.”
The sheriff’s office highlighted the importance of de-escalation tactics and team coordination during high-risk incidents, emphasizing how measured responses can prevent loss of life even in the most dangerous encounters.
Reminder About Mental Health Support
Officials also took the opportunity to remind residents that help is available for anyone struggling with mental health challenges or suicidal thoughts.
“Many people who display aggressive or self-destructive behavior are actually in deep emotional pain,” a sheriff’s spokesperson said. “We want our community to know that support is available 24/7.”
Anyone in immediate crisis is urged to call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which provides confidential help and connects callers to mental health professionals at any time.
What do you think about how deputies handled this tense situation? Share your thoughts and reactions in the comments below.
