Beech Grove Police Officer Killed in Domestic Violence Response

Officer Brian Elliott was fatally shot after responding to a disturbance call at an apartment complex.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

When Beech Grove Police Officer Brian Elliott responded to a disturbance call at an apartment complex, he and his partner were met with gunfire after entering the apartment. Officer Elliott was killed in the incident, which highlights the dangers police face when responding to domestic violence calls with limited information.

Why it matters

Domestic violence calls are among the most dangerous situations for police officers, as they often involve volatile emotions and the potential for violence. This tragic incident underscores the need for improved training, resources, and protocols to help keep officers safe when responding to these types of calls.

The details

According to witnesses, the female resident of the apartment was heard yelling "He's going to kill me" before officers arrived. When Elliott and his partner knocked on the door and announced themselves, they decided to forcibly enter after hearing the woman's continued screams for help. Upon entering, they were met with gunfire from the male resident, Kenneth Johnson, resulting in Elliott's death.

  • The incident occurred late Monday afternoon on February 18, 2026.
  • Officers responded to the disturbance call at the Beech Meadow apartments around 1440 Diplomat Court.

The players

Brian Elliott

A Beech Grove police officer who was fatally shot while responding to a domestic disturbance call.

Kenneth Johnson

The male resident of the apartment who is accused of killing Officer Elliott.

Dale True

A retired IMPD lieutenant with 36 years of experience, who has trained many police officers on how to handle dangerous domestic violence calls.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's very difficult. There's a lot of emotion. The officers are working with limited information most of the time. They only have the information that comes across the radio.”

— Dale True, Retired IMPD Lieutenant

“She was yelling a lot, so that's why I called the police. She was saying, 'He's going to kill me,' and screaming for help.”

— Denilson Mendez, Neighbor

What’s next

Authorities are investigating the incident and will determine whether charges will be filed against Kenneth Johnson. The Beech Grove Police Department is also reviewing its protocols for responding to domestic violence calls to see if any changes or additional training are needed to better protect officers.

The takeaway

This tragic loss of life highlights the inherent dangers police officers face when responding to domestic violence calls, where emotions are high and the potential for violence is ever-present. It underscores the need for continued improvements in training, resources, and coordination between law enforcement and social services to better address these complex situations and keep both officers and the public safe.