Lawsuit filed against shooter in South Whitley death

The family of a South Whitley man who was fatally shot two years ago is seeking financial compensation in the death of Adam Porter.

In a lawsuit filed against David Hagan by Adam’s father, Dan Porter, the family seeks damages from emotional distress and the loss of Adam’s potential earnings. The family did not specify a dollar amount in the suit.

Hagan shot and killed Adam on August 14, 2015, in South Whitley.

Hagan claimed self-defense but was convicted of reckless homicide in 2016. Hagan was sentenced to four years in the Indiana Department of Corrections. He is serving his sentence in Plainfield. He is scheduled to be released in November 2018.

On May 27, the Indiana Court of Appeals upheld Hagan’s conviction.

The shooting happened after the two men had a history of not getting along, court records say.

Hagan had been drinking and then Adam came to the house. Hagan answered the door holding a gun. Adam charged him and the men struggled for the gun, and Hagan shot Adam in the head.

No hearing date for the lawsuit has been scheduled.