Elkhart, Indiana – A deadly shooting at Martin’s Supermarket in Elkhart, Indiana, on Monday evening has left three people dead, including the gunman, and two police officers injured. Authorities have confirmed that Juan Sanchez, 54, was the suspect who opened fire inside the busy grocery store, tragically taking the lives of 19-year-old Annasue Rocha, a store employee, and 49-year-old Benjamin Jeffery, a customer.

Police responded swiftly to reports of an active shooter and confronted Sanchez outside the store. The suspect fired at responding officers, leading to a violent exchange of gunfire that resulted in his death. During the shootout, Corporal Paul Vandenburg and Patrolman Ethan Pasternak of the Elkhart Police Department sustained injuries. Officer Pasternak remains hospitalized in stable condition, while Corporal Vandenburg was treated and later released.

Authorities are now piecing together the details of the tragic attack that has left the Elkhart community in mourning. The Indiana State Police and the Elkhart County Homicide Unit have launched a full-scale investigation to determine Sanchez’s motive and whether the victims were specifically targeted or chosen at random.

The Shooting Unfolds: Chaos in Martin’s Supermarket

According to eyewitness accounts and police reports, the violence began around 6:15 p.m. when Juan Sanchez entered Martin’s Supermarket on East Jackson Boulevard. Witnesses recall hearing an argument near the deli section, followed by gunfire that sent customers and employees scrambling for safety.

Authorities believe that Annasue Rocha, who worked at the store as a cashier, was one of the first victims. Rocha was shot at close range near the self-checkout lanes, collapsing on the floor as terrified customers fled the scene. Investigators say Benjamin Jeffery, a longtime resident of Elkhart, attempted to intervene or flee but was also gunned down by Sanchez near the store’s produce section.

“He just started shooting out of nowhere,” said Lisa Martinez, a shopper who had been in the frozen foods aisle when the gunfire erupted. “People were screaming and running. I ducked behind a display and just prayed that it would stop.”

Store security cameras captured the moment Sanchez fired multiple rounds before making his way toward the exit.

Gunman Confronted by Police, Fatal Shootout Ensues

By the time the Elkhart Police Department arrived at the supermarket, Sanchez had exited the store but did not surrender. Officers ordered him to drop his weapon, but he instead raised his firearm and opened fire on police.

A fierce exchange of gunfire erupted in the parking lot, during which Corporal Paul Vandenburg and Patrolman Ethan Pasternak were hit. Officers returned fire, fatally wounding Sanchez near the entrance of the store.

“Elkhart officers responded with remarkable bravery,” Police Chief Kris Seymore stated during a press conference. “They put themselves in harm’s way to stop the shooter before he could harm anyone else. We are grateful that our officers are alive and recovering.”

Victims Remembered: A Community in Mourning

The tragic deaths of Annasue Rocha and Benjamin Jeffery have shaken the close-knit Elkhart community.

• Annasue Rocha, 19, was a beloved employee at Martin’s Supermarket. Friends describe her as a hardworking and kind-hearted young woman who always had a smile for customers. Rocha had recently graduated from Elkhart High School and was saving up for college.

“She was the sweetest person you’d ever meet,” said Maria Gutierrez, Rocha’s co-worker. “She was always talking about her dreams of becoming a nurse. She didn’t deserve this.”

• Benjamin Jeffery, 49, was a devoted husband and father who had lived in Elkhart for over 20 years. Known for his generosity and outgoing personality, Jeffery was remembered as a hero who tried to help others even in his final moments.

“Ben always put others before himself,” said Al Kinsey, a longtime friend. “He was a man of faith, a loving father, and someone you could always count on. This is a terrible loss.”

Shooter’s Background: Who Was Juan Sanchez?

Investigators are now looking into Juan Sanchez’s background to determine what led him to commit such a horrific act. Authorities confirm that Sanchez had moved to Elkhart within the past year but have not yet disclosed whether he had a criminal record or a known history of mental illness.

“At this point, we’re investigating all possible motives,” said Detective Rachel Simmons of the Elkhart County Homicide Unit. “We are speaking with the suspect’s family and examining his digital footprint for any warning signs.”

Political and Law Enforcement Leaders Respond

The shooting has drawn reactions from local and state leaders.

• Elkhart Mayor Rod Roberson expressed sorrow over the tragedy:
  “Our hearts are broken for the families of the victims and the brave officers who were injured. Elkhart is a strong community, and we will stand together in this difficult time.”
• Indiana Governor Mike Braun released a statement:
  “As details emerge about this senseless act of violence, my prayers are with the victims’ families, the officers who put their lives on the line, and the entire Elkhart community.”
• Congressman Rudy Yakym also offered condolences:
  “I am horrified by the tragic news out of Elkhart tonight. Our office is in communication with local authorities, and we will support them in any way possible.”

Investigation Ongoing, Police Urge Public to Come Forward

The Indiana State Police and the Elkhart County Homicide Unit are continuing their investigation. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and examining forensic evidence to build a full timeline of the shooting.

Authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward, especially if they had prior contact with Sanchez or noticed any suspicious behavior before the attack.

If you have any information regarding this case, you can contact the Elkhart County Homicide Unit at 574-295-2825 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 574-288-STOP (7867).

Community Vigil Planned for Victims

In the wake of the tragedy, community members are organizing a candlelight vigil to honor the victims. The event will take place outside Martin’s Supermarket on Friday evening, where residents will gather to pay their respects and support the families of Annasue Rocha and Benjamin Jeffery.

“This isn’t just about mourning,” said local pastor Rev. Marcus Williams, who is helping organize the vigil. “It’s about healing, about remembering the lives lost, and about standing together as a community.”

Conclusion

The deadly shooting at Martin’s Supermarket in Elkhart has left a community in shock, mourning the tragic loss of Annasue Rocha, 19, and Benjamin Jeffery, 49. The swift response of Elkhart Police officers Paul Vandenburg and Ethan Pasternak prevented further bloodshed, though both officers were injured in the line of duty.

While Juan Sanchez, 54, was killed during a shootout with police, questions remain about what led him to commit such a devastating act. As the investigation continues, Elkhart residents, local leaders, and law enforcement agencies are united in their call for justice and healing in the aftermath of this horrific event.