A deadly shooting at the Portside Pub in Hammond, Indiana, on March 30, 2025, has left the community in shock and mourning. Two victims, Paul, a bartender, and Lorraine Reyna, aged 32, were tragically killed, and three others were injured in the incident. Caprice Edward Cashaw, a 34-year-old man, has been arrested in connection with the shooting and faces multiple charges, including manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide.
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Details of the Shooting Incident at Portside Pub
The shooting took place in the early hours of Sunday, March 30, 2025, just before 4 a.m., at the Portside Pub, a popular nightlife venue in Hammond. Officers from the Hammond Police Department responded to reports of gunfire and discovered five people suffering from gunshot wounds. Two victims, Paul, the bartender on duty, and Lorraine Reyna, were pronounced dead at the scene. The other three victims were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment, with two in serious condition and one in stable condition.
Remembering the Victims: Paul and Lorraine Reyna
Paul, aged 48, was a well-liked bartender who had worked at the Portside Pub for over five years. Known for his kind heart, sense of humor, and commitment to his patrons, Paul was described by his colleagues as the “heart and soul” of the pub. His death has left a deep void in the community he served.
Lorraine Reyna, a 32-year-old mother and compassionate community member, was a beloved figure in Hammond. Known for her kindness and willingness to help others, Lorraine had been visiting friends at the pub that night and never anticipated the tragic outcome. Her family and friends are deeply grieving her loss, as she was a person who made everyone feel comfortable and valued.
Caprice Edward Cashaw: A Troubling History and Arrest
Caprice Edward Cashaw, the man arrested in connection with the shooting, has a criminal history that has raised concerns about his involvement in the deadly incident. In 2022, Cashaw was involved in a criminal incident at an East Chicago casino where he allegedly attempted to run over an Indiana Gaming Commission agent. Despite the seriousness of the crime, Cashaw was only charged with criminal recklessness, a Class B misdemeanor, and was not incarcerated. This allowed him to remain free and, tragically, led to his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting.
Authorities have expressed concern that Cashaw’s past criminal behavior, coupled with delays in his legal proceedings, contributed to this preventable tragedy. His arrest has sparked discussions about repeat offenders and the criminal justice system’s handling of such cases.
Investigation and Possible Motive Behind the Shooting
Detective Lt. Marc Ferry of the Hammond Police Department stated that early evidence suggests the shooting may have been linked to a personal dispute. Investigators are looking into the possibility of a domestic-related altercation preceding the incident. Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the case to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. A dedicated hotline has been established for tips and information.
Community Response and Calls for Domestic Violence Awareness
The shooting has deeply affected the tight-knit community of Hammond, prompting local residents to rally together in support of the victims’ families. Many have expressed disbelief that such violence could occur in their peaceful town. Advocacy groups have used this tragic event to highlight the urgent need for better support systems for victims of domestic violence, as well as stronger intervention measures before situations escalate to violence.
Sheila Martinez, director of a local women’s shelter, emphasized the preventability of such violence and urged for greater resources to help individuals in domestic abuse situations. Local residents are calling for more proactive measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Justice and Accountability: Concerns About the Criminal Justice System
The tragic events have also highlighted concerns over the criminal justice system’s handling of repeat offenders like Cashaw. Legal experts argue that the backlog of cases and delays in prosecuting offenders have allowed dangerous individuals to remain free, putting communities at risk. Criminal defense attorney Robert Harrison pointed out that cases like Cashaw’s demonstrate the failure to swiftly address the behavior of repeat offenders and the need for reform in the legal system.
Conclusion: A Community Left to Grieve and Heal
As the investigation into the deadly shooting continues, the community of Hammond is left to mourn the loss of Paul and Lorraine Reyna, while also hoping for justice to be served. Caprice Edward Cashaw remains in custody, facing multiple charges for his alleged involvement in the tragedy.
A memorial service is being planned to honor the victims, with community members coming together to support the families affected. In the wake of this senseless act of violence, the focus will remain on ensuring justice for the victims and addressing the underlying issues that contributed to this tragic event. The people of Hammond are committed to healing and ensuring that such violence never happens again.
