On the night of Saturday, July 5, 2014, Michael L. Gillam, 55, was shot near the intersection of Olive and Linden streets in South Bend, Indiana. South Bend Police arrived about 11:30 p.m. and found him unresponsive; he was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy confirmed a gunshot wound to the chest and the death was ruled a homicide.

The St. Joseph County Metro Homicide Unit led the investigation and developed a person of interest. Following that inquiry, 55-year-old Michael Taylor was taken into custody and arrested on a preliminary charge of murder in connection with Gillam’s death.

Gillam was born December 1, 1958, in South Bend and worked as a self-employed mechanic who collected and worked on cars. He enjoyed fishing and traveling with his children and is survived by his wife, Cassondra Gillam, several daughters and sons, and extended family. If anyone knew Michael or saw activity near Olive and Linden on July 5, 2014, please come forward with information.