IMPD Officer Killed In The Line Of Duty

Flags are flying at half staff around Indianapolis as the city remembers the life of a decorated officer killed in the line of duty early Friday morning.

Officer Rod Bradway, 41, was shot and killed after responding to a call about 2 a.m. about a domestic disturbance at the Eagle Pointe Apartments near 46th Street and I-465.

IMPD reports Bradway heard screams for “help” from a woman who was inside an apartment and fearing for the safety of this woman made entry. As he entered the apartment, gunshots were exchanged between Bradway and the suspect identified as Steven Brydo, 24.

Arnetta Taylor lives several doors down from where the shooting occurred and says her son woke her up when he heard gunshots.

"He woke me and told me that he heard gunshots going off and that there was an array of police officers out here," she said.  "It was loaded out here with police officers."

"It was really heart wrenching thing," said Taylor.

Bradway was struck with gunfire and transported to Wishard Memorial Hospital in critical condition where he later died as a result of his injuries.

Rod Bradway was a 5-year IMPD veteran from Nappanee, Indiana and was recently awarded the IMPD’s Medal of Bravery. He is survived by a wife and two children.

"We have lost a true hero today in Officer Bradway…please keep his family and the IMPD family in your thoughts and prayers in the days and weeks that lie ahead” said IMPD Chief Rick Hite.

In an emotional statement outside Wishard Hospital this morning where Bradway was pronounced dead, Fraternal Order of Police President Bill Owensby said, "(Bradway) put on his uniform last night and left for work and won’t be going home".

Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard canceled the remainder of his Germany trip to return home in the wake of officers Bradway's death and ordered all city-county buildings fly flags at half staff.

"The City of Indianapolis lost a decorated hero, husband and father today," Ballard said.  "Officer Rod Bradway gave his life protecting the people of our community by charging ahead to confront the unknown."