Phillip Edward White, of Gary, is facing multiple felony charges after prosecutors allege he threatened a man with a hammer before ordering another individual to shoot him during an incident inside a residence in the 300 block of Marshall Street in Gary.
According to court documents, Gary Police Detective JerVean Gates responded to the residence shortly after 1:45 a.m. on May 5 in reference to a reported shooting.
Investigators reportedly located a black and yellow hammer on a wooden table, two live rounds, two spent .22 caliber shell casings, and a pool of blood near paperwork bearing the victim’s name.
The victim was later treated at Methodist Northlake Hospital for a gunshot wound to his left hand. Court documents state the victim told investigators he had been at the residence with White when White allegedly accused him of being a police informant and stealing drugs White had previously given him to hold onto.
According to the affidavit, White allegedly threatened to hit the victim’s hand with a hammer and ordered him to place his hand on a table. The victim told police White grabbed the hammer and stated, “you’re stealing or you working with them people.” The victim denied stealing drugs or cooperating with police.
Court documents state White later put the hammer down before a gray truck arrived at the residence. An unidentified man wearing a black hoodie allegedly entered the home, sat down, and sniffed cocaine while White continued questioning the victim.
Investigators said the victim told police White eventually “flips out” and yelled, “Man fuck this shit. Shoot his ass!” before exiting the residence and sitting inside his truck.
According to the affidavit, the unidentified man then photographed the victim’s identification card before demanding the victim place his hand on the table to prove he was telling the truth. The man allegedly asked, “Are you willing to put your hand on your truthfulness?” before attempting to shoot the victim in the hand.
Court documents state the firearm initially malfunctioned. After manipulating the gun and ejecting a round, the man allegedly fired a second time, striking the victim in the hand.
The victim told investigators the man then stated, “Go to the hospital. If they don’t lock you up at the hospital, then I’ll know you working with them people.”
Court documents state White allegedly drove away after hearing the gunshot.
Medical records reviewed by investigators confirmed the victim was treated for a gunshot wound to his left hand.
Lodged in the Lake County Jail.
Charges filed May 8,2026:
• Battery by Means of a Deadly Weapon — Level 5 Felony
• Battery Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury — Level 5 Felony
• Intimidation While Drawing or Using a Deadly Weapon — Level 5 Felony
