Indianapolis, Indiana – A deaf man tragically lost his life in what his family believes was a violent incident of road rage. Two individuals have been charged with murder in connection to the death of Ryan Hawkins, 35, according to the Indiana State Police.
The events unfolded on May 1 when state police received multiple 911 calls reporting a shooting and a vehicle veering off the road into a pond on I-65 northbound. Responders found Hawkins unconscious and unresponsive at the scene, with his car submerged in the nearby pond.
Following the discovery of gunshot wounds on Hawkins and bullet holes in his vehicle, investigators pieced together that shots had been fired from one vehicle at Hawkins’ car, causing him to swerve off the highway before ultimately landing in the pond.
Hawkins’ family disclosed to local news outlets their belief that the incident stemmed from a “honking incident,” where Hawkins attempted to speed away in his Hyundai Elantra from a Ford Explorer whose occupants began shooting at him.
After locating the other vehicle involved in the altercation, authorities arrested Andre Briski and Shawna Rowland. Briski faces charges of murder and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, while Rowland is charged with assisting a criminal and obstruction of justice.
Evidence suggests that Briski allegedly admitted to police that he was responsible for the shooting, claiming he feared a crash with Hawkins’ vehicle. The events have left Hawkins’ family devastated, mourning the loss of a cherished soul who connected with everyone he met.
The tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of road rage and the importance of de-escalation in tense driving situations. As the investigation unfolds, the community grapples with the senseless violence that claimed the life of a beloved individual.