Recent string of violent crimes in South Bend Spark Call to End Summer Violence ahead of Holiday Weekend

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- A call for peace echoed through downtown South Bend Wednesday Afternoon after two late night shootings at city parks left four people injured.

With the Fourth of July holiday approaching, local leaders, clergy, and community members are rallying to stop the surge in violence and reclaim the summer for unity and peace.

Calling for respect over retaliation, dialogue over division, and community over conflict.

The incidents took place at Boland and Keller Parks, both stemming from unsanctioned pop up parties. Police say they have leads, but have not received much cooperation from witnesses, as they continue to look for those responsible.

In response, a grassroots group, Let’s Turn It Around, organized a call against violence to bring the community together to pray for peace.

“We wanted to go out before the holiday weekend to say please, please put down the guns, put down the negative attitude, and pick up some caring and respect,” said Lynn Coleman, the group’s founder. “If we don’t say anything, it’s almost like we’re condoning the negative behavior,” added Coleman.

Among those in attendance was Bobbie Woods, who founded Mamas Against Violence after losing her only son, Terill, to gun violence in 2003.

“I could’ve easily said to family and friends, ‘Let’s go handle this,’ but instead I told them, ‘Let’s let the law handle it,’” Woods said.

Standing in solidarity, South Bend Common Council President Canneth Lee spoke out,

“Let’s all commit to making this a summer to remember for the right reasons,” Lee said. “We do not support violence in our community, and we’re asking those who are in need of help to seek help. We’re here to help you.”

The South Bend Police Department said they are taking a zero-tolerance stance ahead of the holiday. Assistant Chief Dan Skibins said the department will increase its presence in city parks, monitoring gatherings closely, and are prepared to make arrest and impound vehicles if necessary.

All city parks close at 11 p.m.

Though Mayor James Mueller was not present at the downtown event, he sent his full support.

A spokesperson for The City of South Bend said in a statement, Statement from city spokesperson:

“The city stands in unison with Mr. Coleman and other community leaders, urging the end of senseless violence in South Bend. The City and South Bend Police Department remain committed to making our streets and neighborhoods safe, welcoming and vibrant, and we appreciate the community's support because we can’t do it alone. Together, we must confront and stop the heartbreaking gun violence in our city.”