Holy Cross College responds to fatal shooting, does not believe students were involved

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. – A shooting at a potential college student house party took place on Sunday morning, taking the life of 24-year-old Montell O’Neal, but Holy Cross College said that there is no indication that students were involved. The St. Joseph County Metro Homicide Unit said differently.

However, according to Dave Wells, assistant commander of the St. Joseph County Metro Homicide Unit, the renters at the home where the shooting took place were students of Holy Cross College.

In a statement, Wells stated, “We’ve received numerous calls asking if this homicide occurred at a home rented by Notre Dame students. Apparently, there is some confusion in the media and on various social media sites. The renters of 821 E. Washington are, in fact, Holy Cross College students. Many of the people we’ve spoken to were not students at either college.”

Holy Cross College's President, Reverend David T. Tyson responded to the incident.

In a statement, he stated, “Holy Cross College at Notre Dame, Indiana, is saddened by the news of the passing of South Bend resident Montell O’Neal. The College is aware of the party and shooting incident. Given the college’s preliminary investigation there is no indication that any Holy Cross College students were involved. The administration is dedicated to keeping our college community and the surrounding South Bend community safe. The Holy Cross College community will keep everyone affected by this tragic event in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

This is an active investigation. CMHU is asking for the public to help. If you have any information, you are asked to call 574-235-5009 or Michiana Crime Stoppers at 574-288-STOP.