News Release from the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Department –
On November 26, 2022, at approximately 9:52 p.m., deputies from the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s
Office responded to the 300 block of Elm Street in Hope, Indiana, in regards to a person suffering from a
gunshot wound.
Upon arrival, officers from the Hope Police Department and BCSO deputies located an 18 year old male,
later identified as Jesse W. Bragg 18 of Hope, who was shot in the chest inside the residence. Medical
aid was immediately rendered, however unfortunately, Bragg was pronounced deceased on scene.
Detectives from both BCSO and CPD responded to conduct a homicide investigation, which resulted in
the arrest of Joseph T. Kidwell, 18 of Fowler, Ind., on an allegation involving reckless homicide – a level 5 felony.
This investigation is ongoing. Further details will be released to the public at a later time. All persons are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
