Former South Spencer High Student Stanley Kepley III Found Dead in Huntingburg; Police Investigating Apparent Self-Inflicted Injuries
HUNTINGBURG, IN — A tragic scene unfolded Thursday afternoon in Huntingburg as authorities responded to a welfare check that ended in heartbreak. Stanley Kepley III, a 29-year-old former South Spencer High School student from Rockport, Indiana, was found unresponsive on the front porch of a home and later pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts.
The incident occurred at 606 South Main Street around 1:28 p.m. on May 22, 2025, when the Huntingburg Police Department was dispatched for a welfare check after someone expressed concern about Kepley’s well-being. Upon arrival, officers discovered Kepley lying on the front porch, suffering from severe injuries to his arm.
Officers immediately began performing life-saving measures, and emergency personnel from Deaconess Memorial Hospital soon arrived to take over care. Despite their swift response, Kepley was pronounced deceased at the scene.
In a statement released by the Huntingburg Police Department, officials noted that Kepley was alone at the time of the incident and that preliminary findings indicate the injuries were self-inflicted. While the investigation is ongoing, authorities say no foul play is suspected at this time.
To ensure a comprehensive and thorough investigation, the Indiana State Police Crime Scene Investigation Unit was called in to process the scene, photograph evidence, and assist in documenting the circumstances surrounding Kepley’s death. An autopsy is scheduled for Friday, May 23, which will help confirm the cause and manner of death.
Kepley, remembered by friends and former classmates as a kind yet quiet individual, graduated from South Spencer High School and had spent much of his life in Rockport, a small community in Spencer County. His sudden passing has left many in both Rockport and Huntingburg stunned and grieving.
“We are deeply saddened by this loss,” said Chief Travis Fields of the Huntingburg Police Department. “Our officers and local emergency responders worked with urgency and care. Now, our priority is supporting the family and ensuring all investigative steps are taken to provide them with answers.”
In addition to Huntingburg Police, several agencies responded to assist at the scene, including the Huntingburg Fire Department, Dubois County Sheriff’s Department, Indiana State Police, Deaconess Memorial EMTs, and the Dubois County Coroner’s Office.
As investigators continue their work, community leaders are urging residents to remain aware of the mental health challenges that often go unseen and unspoken.
“This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of how important it is to check in on loved ones,” said a spokesperson for a local support group. “There are people in our lives who may be hurting quietly. Even a small act of kindness or concern can sometimes make all the difference.”
The Kepley family has been notified, and authorities ask the public to respect their privacy during this time of mourning.
Anyone with additional information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Huntingburg Police Department at (812) 683-4111.
This story is developing and will be updated with the autopsy results and further details as they become available. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please contact the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free, confidential support.