The woman who was shot and killed in Mishawaka on Sunday evening, June 26, has been identified as a St. Joseph County Correctional Officer.

Police were called to the 1900 block of Milburn Boulevard around 6 p.m., after a call reporting gunshots.

There, they found the victim, Rhema Harris, 28, suffering a gunshot wound to the chest. Harris was taken to the hospital where she died from her injuries.

Police say it was a drive-by shooting where shots were fired at the back of the house from an alley next to the home. Five people, which included children, were inside at the time.

Police are still gathering evidence from the scene and interviewing witnesses at this time.

Investigators say it appears to be an isolated incident.

Anybody with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Mishawaka Police Detective Bureau at (574) 258- 1684 or Crime Stoppers at (574) 288-STOP.

The St. Joseph County Sheriff released the following statement:

Dear St. Joseph County Residents,

It is with great sadness that I announce the tragic passing of St. Joseph County Correctional Officer Rhema Harris, who was killed in yet another senseless act of violence yesterday afternoon in the City of Mishawaka.

The Mishawaka Police Department is continuing to investigate the drive-by shooting which occurred on Sunday, June 26, 2022, at approximately 6:00 p.m. As a result of her injury, Rhema was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

Rhema Harris was hired as a correctional officer by our department on July 12, 2021. She was assigned to our 3rd detail (midnight) shift in the jail. Rhema was also in the testing process to become a St. Joseph County Police Officer.

Rhema proudly served her country in the United States Army. She received a national defense service award, global war on terrorism service medal and an Army service ribbon, before being honorably discharged in 2016.

I ask that everyone please keep Rhema Harris, her family and her correctional officer family in your thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,

William J. Redman
Sheriff