In the early hours of July 24, 2024, the life of 32-year-old James W. Mischler, a male resident of Vincennes, Indiana, was tragically cut short. Known affectionately as 'Weezy,' Mischler was a hardworking laborer with a reputation for his kindness, amazing sense of humor, and a contagious smile. He was a man who loved life, people, and was always willing to lend a hand to someone in need.
His passions included cars and spending precious time with his family.
The events that led to his untimely death unfolded in the 1300 block of North 14th Street in Vincennes. Following a day of prolonged arguments and discussions, a violent altercation erupted. At approximately 12:35 a.m., police were dispatched to the scene where they found that Mischler had sustained several gunshot wounds to the chest. Despite the immediate response, his injuries proved fatal.
The investigation swiftly pointed to 18-year-old Calvin James Wittmer as the primary suspect. A witness at the scene informed authorities that the shooting was the culmination of the day's disputes between Wittmer and Mischler. Wittmer fled the scene after the incident but was located and arrested without incident at a residence in the 1600 block of Canbro Street. During the arrest, law enforcement discovered a 9mm Glock handgun with an extended magazine concealed under a couch in the basement of the home. This weapon matched the description of the firearm used in the shooting.
Calvin James Wittmer was subsequently charged with the murder of James Mischler. He was jailed in Knox County without bond and made his initial appearance in Knox Superior Court. During this hearing, a preliminary plea of not guilty was entered on his behalf. The court appointed legal counsel to represent him, and the state's case will be presented by the Chief Deputy Prosecutor. A trial has been scheduled to commence on October 15, 2024. Interestingly, on the same night as Mischler's death, Wittmer was also allegedly involved in a separate, unrelated attempted murder case.
