Fort Wayne mayor to host community talk on youth violence

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WISH) — The mayor of Fort Wayne on Wednesday will host a community discussion on youth violence.

The meeting comes after a 16-year-old was killed and three people, from age 15 to 18, were injured in a mass shooting hours after Fourth of July celebrations in downtown Fort Wayne.

Democratic Mayor Sharon Tucker wants to hear from the public and get feedback as a presentation is given on the roles and responsibilities of her office and the Fort Wayne Police Department are explained, said a news release issued Thursday.

In a statement, the mayor noted “the recent senseless actions centered around youth violence and guns that are having a negative impact.” She also posted a video on Facebook about the meeting.

The meeting will be 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday at downtown Fort Wayne’s Allen County Public Library Main Branch in The Theater on lower level. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. People can go online to register and submit questions. The meeting is limited to 190 people, but City TV will record the meeting for later airing.

The release said that, in addition to the mayor, the discussion will include Police Chief Scott Caudill; Roderick Parker of Big Hearts Community Project; and a representative of Foundation One of Unity Barber Shop. Andrew Downs, the city government’s director of intergovernmental affairs, will be the moderator.

Statement

“This is a critical time for our community. I want every area of our great city to be safe and enjoyable and for business owners, residents, and neighborhoods to not have to deal with the recent senseless actions centered around youth violence and guns that are having a negative impact. I’m hopeful that through open dialogue and trust we can move forward in a positive manner. It’s not going to be easy but I’m not one to back down from challenges and having difficult discussions to find lasting solutions.”

Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker, a Democrat

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