Corporal Thomas Roberts, 43, was killed on the night of December 13, 2003, while on duty with the Mishawaka Police Department. He and Patrolman Bryan Verkler responded to reports of shots fired on Battell Street and were directed to 1012 Sarah Street where the shooter was believed to be hiding. When the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Raymond Matthew Gilkeson, exited the residence he opened fire, striking both officers.

Sergeant Michael Cleveland returned fire and wounded Gilkeson, who then retreated into the home and died of a self-inflicted gunshot to the head. Both Roberts and Verkler died from their wounds; Roberts was pronounced dead at the scene. The St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office concluded Gilkeson acted alone and no other suspects were identified. Roberts, a 14-year department veteran, was survived by two daughters and two brothers.

Did anyone in Mishawaka at the time have memories of Corporal Roberts or of that night that could shed further light on what happened?