From the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Department
On November 14, 2020, at approximately 4:20 p.m., Bartholomew County Sheriffs Office K9 Diesel was involved in a foot pursuit, which resulted in his death in the line of duty. BCSO deputies found Diesel laying in the lanes of I-65 where they removed him from the roadway. BCSOs investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of death.
The suspect, later identified as Michael Stephens 36 of Columbus, was apprehended on outstanding warrants as well as additional preliminary charges. He is currently being held in the Bartholomew County Jail on a 48-hour Hold.
Warrant Allegations:
Count 1: Domestic Battery committed in the presence of a child less than 16 years old F6
Count 2: Domestic Battery committed in the presence of a child less than 16 years old F6
Allegations involving New Preliminary Charges:
Cruelty to a Law Enforcement Animal
Resisting Law Enforcement
Domestic Battery
Intimidation
Strangulation
If you or know of anyone traveling yesterday, November 14, on I-65 near the 62 mile marker between 4:00 4:30 p.m., and think you/they might have seen something or has additional information, please contact the Bartholomew County Sheriffs Office and ask to speak with Lt. Chad Swank of the Investigations Division. Phone number: 812-379-1650
We are currently working on the details for BCSOs K9 Diesels Memorial Service. There is nothing that we can say to ease anyones pain we are all mourning the loss of Diesel. Diesels work has been responsible for countless arrests in our community as well as the constant uplifting of our morale while working on station. We will miss him.
This is a preliminary investigation. All persons are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.