In the early hours of March 30, 2025, the life of 25-year-old Paul Emigdio Olivares was tragically cut short in an act of violence that also claimed the life of another and wounded three others. The incident unfolded at the Portside Pub, a bar located at 1516 Indianapolis Blvd in Hammond, Indiana, a community neighboring Olivares's hometown of Whiting.
Remembered as a kind, courageous, and loyal friend, son, and brother, his sudden death sent shockwaves through his community.
The violence erupted from what authorities described as a domestic incident that began in the parking lot next to the pub. According to Hammond's mayor, Paul Olivares, along with 59-year-old Lorraine Reyna, were acting as Good Samaritans, attempting to defuse the escalating situation when they were fatally shot. The shooting happened around 4 a.m., a time when the establishment was reportedly supposed to have been closed. When police responded to reports of gunfire, they discovered a chaotic scene with five people having been shot. Olivares and Reyna were pronounced dead at the scene.
In the aftermath of the shooting, a person of interest was taken into custody. He was later identified as 31-year-old Caprice Edward Cashaw of Merrillville. Cashaw was subsequently charged with multiple felonies, including murder and attempted murder, with the charges enhanced due to the use of a firearm. As the legal process against the alleged perpetrator began, the community mourned the loss of two individuals who lost their lives while trying to help another. A memorial gathering was scheduled for Paul Olivares to honor a life that was remembered for its warmth and bravery.
