Gary, Indiana – Police in Gary say a 26-year-old man shot and killed his girlfriend, also 26, during a violent confrontation inside their home while their 11-month-old baby was present. The deadly dispute reportedly escalated after the woman confronted him about past cheating allegations, leading to a fatal gunshot from a sawed-off shotgun.
Incident Overview
According to police, Charles Franklin, 26, is accused of shooting his girlfriend, Arrianna Miles, inside their residence on the 2400 block of Pennsylvania Street. The fatal incident occurred on Monday, when the couple began arguing over ongoing relationship issues. Their infant son, who is less than one year old, was inside the home at the time of the shooting.
An affidavit reviewed by the Post-Tribune states that Miles confronted Franklin about infidelity and asked him to leave the home. The argument intensified, and what followed turned into a physical struggle that ended with a fatal gunshot wound.
Timeline of Events
Investigators say the confrontation escalated after Miles allegedly grabbed a sawed-off shotgun from a closet. Franklin told authorities that the two began struggling over the weapon before it discharged. He immediately called 911, reporting that Miles had been shot.
During the call, the dispatcher asked Franklin whether he had intentionally shot her. Franklin reportedly hesitated before replying “no.” In the background, Miles could be heard crying out:
“Why would you do that?”
She also told him:
“I’m dying… take me outside.”
Moments later, she fell silent.
Police and Official Findings
When Gary police officers arrived, they found Miles on a sofa, bleeding from a gunshot wound to her abdomen. According to the affidavit, she pleaded with officers:
“Please get him away from me.”
Miles was rushed to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
An autopsy revealed she died from a close-range gunshot wound, and investigators quickly became skeptical of Franklin’s version of events.
Police noted that the gun was fired from a downward trajectory, inconsistent with a mutual struggle. Officers also questioned why five unused 12-gauge shotgun shells—matching the ammunition used—were found scattered throughout the home.
This information comes from court documents and reports reviewed by the Post-Tribune.
Key Facts of the Case
- Suspect: Charles Franklin, 26
- Victim: Arrianna Miles, 26
- Child Present: 11-month-old son
- Location: 2400 block of Pennsylvania Street, Gary, Indiana
- Weapon: Sawed-off shotgun
- Wound: Close-range gunshot to the abdomen
- Charges: Murder, domestic battery in the presence of a child, unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon
- Additional Findings: Downward shot trajectory; multiple matching shotgun shells found
Witness Accounts and Audio Evidence
The most chilling details came from the 911 call itself. Miles’ recorded statements—pleading for help and questioning Franklin’s actions—will likely play a significant role in the prosecution’s case. Her repeated cries indicated both fear and a clear belief that Franklin was responsible for the shooting.
Police reports also mention that Miles’ final words and emotional distress starkly contradicted Franklin’s version that she was holding the weapon when it discharged accidentally.
Additional Context
Court records reveal that Franklin had a history of domestic violence, including a domestic battery charge in April and an intimidation charge in May. His criminal history also bars him from possessing firearms, making the presence of the sawed-off shotgun another key element of the investigation.
Authorities emphasize that domestic violence situations can escalate rapidly, especially when firearms are involved. Experts highlight the importance of early intervention, safety planning, and reporting warning signs before conflicts reach a deadly point.
Conclusion
Franklin is currently being held in the Lake County Jail and was scheduled to appear for an initial court hearing on Thursday. As investigators continue piecing together the events leading to Miles’ tragic death, the case underscores the dangers of escalating domestic disputes and illegal gun possession.
What are your thoughts on rising domestic violence cases in your area? Share your experiences in the comments below.
