Police identify body found in Ravina Park

By Sarah Rice (srice@wsbt.com)

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Police identify body found in Ravina Park

By Tiffany Griffin

Story Created: Sep 13, 2007 at 4:05 PM EST

Story Updated: Mar 17, 2008 at 3:56 PM EST

(WSBT) Police have identified a body found in a South Bend Park. They say 35-year-old Melissa Shields was strangled.

Shields had been in and out of prison several times in the past 10 years for drug and theft charges.

1997

  • Drug Possession
    2000
  • Auto Theft
  • Receiving Stolen Auto Parts
  • Drug Charges
  • Carrying a handgun without a license
    2003
  • Auto Theft
  • Receiving Stolen Auto Parts
      Source: Indiana Department of Corrections

    Police were called to Ravina Park just south of downtown South Bend just before midnight, near the corner of Indiana and Lebanon.

    They were called to the scene after reports of screaming coming from the park. When they arrived they found Shield's body under the jungle gym.

    Residents near the park say the area has had its share of problems, but the last few years have been quiet, until now.

    "This is the first time that I can recall of any death in the outside area. You know we've had shootings in houses and that around here, but nothing out on the streets," said Bill Sagendorf, who lives near the park.

    Shanice Benton also lives near Ravina Park.

    "It's kind of close to home. It's happening a lot now. It's getting crazy,” said Benton.

    Ravina Park is a popular place for children to play and that's what has parents concerned. They say they are going to be more cautious of where their kids play.

    "Try to stay in the house and keep her close to the house you know," said Benton.

    Benton says that's only part of the solution &mash; staying vigilant may be the other.

    "They need to have the neighborhoods come together a little bit more and you know, neighborhood watch and you know, everybody needs to be more alert,” said Benton.

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