Marion, Indiana — A 22-year-old Marion man has been formally charged with reckless homicide following the shooting death of a young girl that occurred Sunday morning inside a residential home, according to local authorities.
Police say the incident unfolded shortly after 9:25 a.m. on December 21, when officers were dispatched to a report of a shooting in the 2000 block of West 11th Street. When officers arrived at the scene, they found a juvenile female suffering from a gunshot wound. She was pronounced dead at the location.
What Police Found at the Scene
According to investigators, an infant and an adult male were also present inside the home at the time of the shooting. Police have not released details about the relationships among those present, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Officers secured the scene and began collecting evidence while coordinating with detectives and forensic personnel. The residence was treated as an active crime scene for several hours as investigators worked to determine how the shooting occurred.
Autopsy Results Rule Out Self-Inflicted Injury
An autopsy was later conducted in Fort Wayne, where a pathologist determined that the girl’s death could not have been self-inflicted, police confirmed. That finding played a significant role in advancing the investigation toward criminal charges.
Following the autopsy results, detectives consulted with the Grant County Prosecutor’s Office to review evidence gathered from the scene, witness statements, and forensic findings.
As a result of that consultation, investigators charged the 22-year-old man who was living at the home with reckless homicide, a felony offense under Indiana law. Police have not released the suspect’s name pending court proceedings.
Understanding the Reckless Homicide Charge
Under Indiana law, reckless homicide typically applies when a person recklessly kills another human being, meaning the death resulted from actions taken with a plain, conscious disregard of harm. Unlike murder charges, reckless homicide does not require intent to kill, but it does indicate serious criminal negligence.
Legal experts note that such charges are often used in cases involving firearms when investigators believe unsafe or irresponsible behavior led directly to a fatal outcome.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The shooting has deeply affected the Marion community, particularly given the young age of the victim and the presence of an infant in the home. Neighbors in the area described the incident as shocking and heartbreaking, with many expressing concern about firearm safety inside residences.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains active and that additional charges are possible depending on further findings.
The Marion Police Department is continuing to review evidence and follow up on tips from the public.
How to Share Information With Police
Police are asking anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. Tips can be shared directly with Marion Police Capt. Josh Zigler by phone at 765-662-9981 or via email at jzigler@cityofmarion.in.gov.
Investigators stress that even seemingly small details could help clarify the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting.
Firearm Safety and Preventing Tragedies
Law enforcement officials continue to urge gun owners to practice strict firearm safety, especially in homes where children are present. This includes keeping firearms unloaded when not in use, using secure gun locks or safes, and ensuring weapons are inaccessible to minors.
National safety data consistently shows that unsecured firearms in homes significantly increase the risk of accidental shootings and fatalities involving children.
What Happens Next
The charged suspect is expected to make an initial court appearance in the coming days, where formal charging documents will be reviewed and bond conditions set. Prosecutors will then determine how the case proceeds through the judicial system.
As the investigation continues, police say they will release additional information when it becomes available and appropriate to do so.
Anyone with relevant knowledge is encouraged to assist authorities as they work to bring clarity and accountability to this tragic case. Share your experiences or thoughts in the comments below.
