Teen's death under investigation

Monday, February 22, 2010
Tanner Fenwick

GREENCASTLE -- Authorities are still investigating the Saturday death of a Greencastle teenager.

Tanner K. Fenwick, 13, died as the result of a single gunshot wound to the head, Putnam County Coroner Thomas Miller said.

Miller said the shooting had been deemed "non-suspicious and undetermined," meaning that although it was self-inflicted, it is not yet known whether or not it was accidental.

"The investigation is open and continuing," Miller said.

A Putnam County dispatcher said a call about the incident, which happened at Fenwick's home, was called in by one of Fenwick's parents at 5:15 p.m. as a "traumatic injury." Officers from the Putnam County Sheriff's Department and Greencastle Police Departments responded to the call.

Fenwick was a seventh-grader at Greencastle Middle School. He was active in wrestling, basketball and football.

GMS principal Shawn Gobert met with school personnel on Sunday to review post-crisis procedures for students. Gobert released the following statement on the tragedy.

"One of our 7th grade students died Saturday as a result of an accidental gunshot wound at his home," the statement read. "Our hearts and prayers go out to his family, his extended family, his friends, our school -- and our entire community. This is a very difficult time for everyone.

"We will have a team of professionals in our building Monday to assist students and staff during this difficult time. They will remain available as long as they are needed."

An obituary for Tanner Fenwick appears on page 2A.