The Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department determined through its initial investigation that Ervin K. Howard was in fact responsible for the death of Debbie McDowell.

Ervin Howard made contact with our 911 center and claimed to have shot McDowell. He gave specific details of the incident which were confirmed through the department’s initial investigation, which included a review of the 911 recordings. Evidence collected has confirmed that the incidents were related.

Howard and McDowell were known to each other, the type and /or extent of their relationship is unknown at this time. “We are continuing to investigate these incidents in conjunction with the Elkhart City Police Department and coroner’s office,” said a press release issued by the ECSD.

This investigation is an ongoing investigation and further information will be released when appropriate.