KOKOMO, IND. (WOWO) The Kokomo Police Department is investigating a fatal shooting that left one man dead early Sunday morning near a local restaurant and bar. Officers responded to a reported disturbance when gunfire erupted shortly after their arrival, according to police.

The Lead Off

• Kokomo police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred early Sunday near 2411 N. Washington St.
• Officers were initially called to the area for a reported fight near The Great Escape restaurant and bar.
• A 31-year-old Kokomo man was pronounced dead after being transported to a hospital.

Officers respond to fight call

According to a release from the Kokomo Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 1:37 a.m. Sunday to 2411 N. Washington St. following reports of a fight near The Great Escape.

Police said the disturbance broke out in the vicinity of the restaurant and bar prior to officers arriving on scene according to Fox 59.

Gunshots reported as officers arrive

Officials said that as officers arrived at the location, they heard multiple gunshots coming from the parking lot area near The Great Escape.

Officers worked to secure the scene following the reported shooting as additional units responded to assist.

Victim located at the scene

Police located 31-year-old Braylen T. Johnson of Kokomo lying on the ground with injuries believed to be consistent with gunshot wounds.

Johnson was unconscious and unresponsive when officers found him, according to investigators.

He was transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead at approximately 2:07 a.m.

Multiple agencies assist investigation

The Kokomo Police Department said it received assistance at the scene from the Howard County Sheriff’s Office, Indiana State Police, and the Howard County Emergency Management Agency.

Authorities have not released information regarding any suspects or persons of interest in connection with the shooting.

Investigation ongoing

Detectives are continuing to gather evidence and review witness statements as part of the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Officials have not indicated whether any arrests have been made at this stage.

The Takeaway

Early morning disturbance escalates to deadly shooting

A fight reported near a Kokomo restaurant and bar escalated into gunfire shortly after officers arrived on scene, according to police.

31-year-old victim dies at hospital

Braylen T. Johnson, 31, of Kokomo, was located at the scene with gunshot wounds and later pronounced dead at a local hospital.

Investigation continues with no suspects identified

Authorities say the investigation remains active, with no public information released regarding suspects or potential arrests as law enforcement agencies continue reviewing evidence.