Indianapolis councilor says home was shot at after he backed a proposed data center; note left saying “NO DATA CENTERS”

Shooting at councilor's home

It has been reported that someone fired 13 shots at the front door of Indianapolis City-County Councilor Ron Gibson’s home after midnight, shattering glass and leaving bullet holes on the porch. Gibson said he and his 8‑year‑old son were awakened by the gunfire and were not physically harmed, but a note in a zip‑closed bag reading “NO DATA CENTERS” was left on the doorstep — a detail that Gibson says made the incident feel politically motivated. Police called to the scene described it as an “isolated, targeted incident,” and the FBI is assisting; no suspect has been identified.

Data center controversy fuels local anger

Gibson had recently advocated for rezoning at a Metropolitan Development Commission meeting to allow a developer, Metrobloks LLC, to build a data center and offices at 2505 North Sherman Drive in Martindale‑Brightwood. He was met with boos when he spoke in favor of the project, which proponents say could support roughly 300 construction jobs, while opponents worry about the strain data centers place on local power grids and water resources as facilities that store and operate AI models proliferate. The commission approved the rezoning last week, but the petition still must pass the City‑County Council.

Investigation and calls for calm

Protect Martindale‑Brightwood, a neighborhood group opposed to the data center, condemned the shooting and denied any involvement, saying violence “has no place” in their advocacy. Council President Maggie Lewis urged civil discourse, noting that disagreement is part of civic life but threats and intimidation are not. When a protest tips into a threat, everyone loses — especially families trying to sleep at night. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not confirmed a motive; it has been reported that law enforcement continues to collect evidence and follow leads.

Sources: cbsnews.com