Indianapolis, Indiana – A man is facing multiple felony charges after prosecutors say he killed his elderly father, seriously injured his mother, and fled the scene in southeast Indianapolis earlier this month.
The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office has charged 54-year-old Bryan Pedigo with murder, attempted murder, auto theft, and battery following a disturbing discovery inside a home on the city’s southeast side.
What police say happened
According to court documents, police were alerted around 8:30 a.m. on December 11 after a 911 caller reported receiving a call from Bryan Pedigo. The caller told dispatchers that Bryan allegedly admitted to killing his father the night before at a residence in the 2100 block of South Catherwood Avenue, near South Arlington Avenue and East Raymond Street.
Officers initially responded to the home but found it secure and unoccupied. Later that day, police returned after a witness reported finding a body wrapped in a rug inside the house. Through a window, officers confirmed the report.
Inside the residence, police found 81-year-old John Lloyd Pedigo dead on the living room floor, his body wrapped in a rug. A woman, later identified as his wife, was found seated in a recliner and appeared unresponsive.
Condition of the victims
Court documents state that John Pedigo suffered homicidal blunt force trauma. Investigators noted marks around his neck consistent with strangulation, and authorities reported that candle wax had been poured over his face.
The woman was still alive but had visible injuries consistent with battery, including bruising and bleeding. Police described her as conscious but dazed and confused. She was transported for medical care, and family members have since said they are praying for her recovery.
Investigators also discovered that John Pedigo’s pickup truck was missing from the home.
Arrest of the suspect
Detectives quickly identified Bryan Pedigo, the victims’ son, as the primary suspect. Police later located him in Greene County, Indiana, where he was taken into custody without incident. Authorities confirmed that Bryan Pedigo is the biological son of both victims.
Neighbors remember the victim
Neighbors described John Pedigo as a kind and caring presence in the community. Bob Kaylor, who lives across the street, said John was beloved throughout the neighborhood.
“He was just the nicest guy that you’d ever want to meet,” Kaylor said. “You’d want him to be your dad. He’s just that nice of a guy.”
Kaylor said there had been escalating concerns in recent months related to Bryan Pedigo’s visits to the neighborhood and described John as someone who watched out for everyone on the block.
“He was the mayor of the neighborhood,” Kaylor said. “He took care of the whole neighborhood.”
Family reaction and warning signs
Family members say the tragedy did not come without warning. Shelley Gindling, John Pedigo’s niece, said the family had long feared something like this could happen.
“This has shattered our family in ways that are just hard for me to even put into words,” Gindling said.
She stated that Bryan Pedigo has a long history of mental health issues, had been recently released from a treatment facility, and had been arrested dozens of times over the past 25 years.
“There was simply no excuse for taking his father’s life,” Gindling said. “There have been warning signs.”
Gindling added that Bryan had threatened multiple family members over the years and had served several prison sentences.
Remembering John Pedigo
John Pedigo was a Vietnam War veteran, remembered by family as warm, friendly, and generous.
“He always had a grin on his face,” Gindling said. “He was friends to everybody. He did not know a stranger.”
While expressing anger and deep sadness, Gindling said the family hopes this marks the end of years of fear.
“The hope is that this reign of fear is over,” she said.
What happens next
Bryan Pedigo remains in custody as the case moves through the court system. Prosecutors have not yet announced a trial date. The investigation remains ongoing.
As the southeast Indianapolis community mourns the loss of a respected neighbor and family patriarch, loved ones say they are holding on to decades of memories and focusing on the recovery of John Pedigo’s wife.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or mental health crisis, local resources and crisis lines are available to provide support.
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