On April 18, 2016, a tense situation unfolded in Dyer, Indiana, drawing a significant law enforcement response to a residence in the community. Authorities were alerted to the scene after Stephen Morris Presnall, a 47-year-old male, contacted the Dyer Police Department directly. During the call, Presnall reportedly indicated that he had inflicted a gunshot wound upon himself.
Due to the nature of the call and the potential presence of a firearm, the Northwest Regional SWAT team was
deployed to the home to secure the area and attempt to make contact with the occupant. A standoff ensued as officers established a perimeter and worked to resolve the incident safely. Upon entering the residence, law enforcement personnel discovered Presnall deceased.
Investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death determined that the fatal injury was self-inflicted. As the incident was ruled a suicide with no external parties involved in the act, there were no suspects sought, and no arrests were made in connection with the case. The police activity concluded once the scene was secured and the nature of the event was confirmed by the Lake County Coroner.
Stephen Presnall, born in Jackson, Alabama, was a resident of the Dyer area at the time of his passing. Aside from the events of that day, he was known in his community as an industrial engineer employed by the Sherwin-Williams Company. He was also an active member of the Northpointe Presbyterian Church, where he participated in the choir and taught Sunday school. His personal interests included outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing, as well as playing the guitar.
