UPDATE (June 13, 2025):
ALLEN CO., Ind. (ADAMS) – We have received an update from the Allen County Sheriff’s Department on an assault that was caught on video before it went viral. The video and coverage garnered significant interest and support from the community for the victim, James Simmons.
Officials say now that six alleged members of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club are in custody for their involvement in the seemingly racially-motivated attack on Simmons at Pikes Pub on May 30, just outside of Fort Wayne.
The bar owner’s boyfriend is among the six who have been arrested for the May 30 beating, which was caught on a now-viral video. Justin Wert of Churubusco has been identified as the suspect who threw the first punch at Simmons.
Read more local reporting HERE
ORIGINAL STORY:
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – City and County officials held a press conference on Wednesday, strongly denouncing recent violence in our community.
And leaders said that the FBI is now involved in the investigation of an attack at Fort Wayne’s Pike’s Pub over the weekend.
Allen County Sheriff Troy Hershberger says his department is the lead investigator, but says the FBI is joining to ensure every lead is followed and they build the strongest case possible.
A Black man was beaten by white men who wore vests with “Outlaw” on their backs.
The U.S. Department of Justice says the Outlaws Motorcycle Club is known to engage in criminal activity.
Read more local reporting HERE
Earlier this week, Mayor Tucker released the response below to the viral beating at Pike’s Pub of a Black man by several white men.
Tucker says the violence has no place here and says Fort Wayne is a welcoming and kind city.
Pike’s Pub owner Kelley Rost says the victim had not paid his bill. The pub has been closed since the incident and has not announced when it will reopen.
My heart breaks when I see violence take place in our community. Fort Wayne is a welcoming and kind city and recent violent acts that we’ve experienced have no place here.
As Mayor, it’s my duty to be transparent and keep the community as safe and informed as possible.
The incident at Pikes Pub fell outside of City of Fort Wayne limits and is under the jurisdiction of the Allen County Sheriff’s Department. I have confidence and trust in their ability to bring those responsible to justice. The Fort Wayne Police Department has and will continue to assist the Allen County Sheriff’s Department in anyway that’s needed.
I continue to be proud of the work that’s being done each day by the brave women and men of our police department. The homicide clearance rate has been 100 percent so far for 2025, with suspects either arrested or warrants issued. The department is working tirelessly on the Colerick Street homicide from over the weekend.
It’s my prayer that our city will come together in peace and humility during this challenging time. We are better when we work with a common goal and understanding to love and respect one another.
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