Tragedy in Huntingburg: Former South Spencer High Student Stanley Kepley III of Rockport Found Dead on Porch

HUNTINGBURG, IN — The Huntingburg Police Department is actively investigating the tragic death of a local man discovered unresponsive during a welfare check on Thursday afternoon, May 22, 2025.

Authorities were dispatched to a residence at 606 South Main Street at approximately 1:28 p.m., following a call from someone concerned about the well-being of the occupant. Upon arrival, officers found Stanley Kepley III, a local man, lying unresponsive on the front porch of the home, suffering from severe injuries to his arm.

Huntingburg police officers quickly began life-saving measures, working to stabilize Kepley before emergency medical personnel from Deaconess Memorial Hospital arrived on the scene. Despite the combined efforts of first responders, Kepley was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to initial statements from the Huntingburg Police Department, no other individuals were present at the time officers arrived. Preliminary evidence suggests that Kepley’s injuries were self-inflicted, and at this time, no foul play is suspected. Authorities, however, are continuing their investigation to fully understand the circumstances leading to his death.

As part of protocol in such investigations, the Indiana State Police Crime Scene Investigation Unit was called in to assist in processing the scene, gathering forensic evidence, and documenting the environment where Kepley was found. An autopsy is scheduled for Friday, May 23, and officials say it will help provide further insight into the cause and manner of death.

Kepley’s immediate family has been notified, though the Huntingburg Police Department is asking the community to allow the family privacy as they process this devastating loss.

Multiple agencies responded to the scene to provide support and coordination, including the Huntingburg Fire Department, the Dubois County Sheriff’s Department, Indiana State Police, Deaconess Memorial Ambulance and EMTs, and the Dubois County Coroner’s Office.

In a brief press release, Police Chief Travis Fields expressed sympathy for the family and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to conducting a thorough and respectful investigation.

“This is a heartbreaking incident for our community,” Chief Fields stated. “Our officers and local emergency responders did everything they could, and now we are focused on ensuring all facts are gathered and the family has the support they need.”

The residence on South Main Street remained taped off for several hours Thursday afternoon as investigators worked meticulously at the scene. Neighbors, visibly shaken, described Kepley as a quiet individual who mostly kept to himself. Some expressed sadness upon learning of his passing, noting that the neighborhood has rarely seen such tragedy.

Mental health resources and support services have since been highlighted by city leaders and local advocates, reminding residents of the importance of checking in on friends, family, and neighbors who may be struggling in silence.

As of now, the investigation remains ongoing pending autopsy results. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Huntingburg Police Department.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.