Joseph Hegwood, 56, was fatally shot in Gary, Indiana, during the overnight hours of February 9, 2018. A retired musician remembered for his joyful spirit, sense of humor and musical talent, Hegwood grew up in Fort Wayne and attended Southside High School before living in Gary. Law enforcement found him with gunshot wounds; he later died that weekend despite efforts to save him.

Family recalled his laughter and a playful catchphrase about being tough enough to whoop a gorilla with a toothpick. The shooting happened amid a chaotic period in the city with multiple incidents in a short span. The case has remained unsolved, with no named suspects or arrests reported and investigators and loved ones left without answers.

If anyone knew Joseph, witnessed the shooting, or has information that could help move this case forward, please come forward.