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Table of Contents
Teenager from Nigeria Faces Murder Charges in Indianapolis Shooting
Emmanuel Awobiyi, a 17-year-old Nigerian resident of Indianapolis, has been formally charged with the murder of 38-year-old William Deaton. The incident occurred on the northwest side of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Awobiyi’s initial court appearance took place on Thursday, October 23.
Details of the Incident
On the afternoon of Tuesday, September 30, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers responded to reports of a shooting near the 5200 block of Austral Drive, close to the 56th Street exit off Interstate 465. The call came in shortly after 4 p.m.
According to official court records, Awobiyi had arranged to meet a woman, during which a confrontation escalated. Police reports indicate that Awobiyi became hostile, brandishing a firearm at the woman, prompting her to scream for assistance. She then contacted William Deaton, who rushed to her aid.
Sequence of Events Captured on Video
Upon Deaton’s arrival, Awobiyi allegedly discharged multiple rounds at him, fatally wounding Deaton at the scene. Emergency medical personnel confirmed Deaton’s death on-site.
Witnesses informed police that Awobiyi fled the location moments before officers arrived, initially evading capture. IMPD homicide detectives launched an extensive investigation, canvassing the neighborhood for eyewitness accounts, surveillance footage, and forensic clues.
Authorities secured a search warrant for a residence on Stanhope Way, situated near the shooting site. Surveillance videos obtained show Awobiyi walking along Austral Drive before entering a wooded area behind nearby homes. The footage also captures Deaton exiting his vehicle and running toward the rear of a house. Shortly after Deaton disappears from view, multiple gunshots are audible, followed by images of Awobiyi fleeing southbound on Austral Drive.
Investigation and Arrest
Law enforcement officials identified Awobiyi as the suspect through video evidence and witness identification. He was apprehended on Monday, October 20, while walking in the vicinity of the neighborhood.
During a search of Awobiyi’s residence, officers discovered a firearm concealed inside a toilet tank, wrapped in plastic. Awobiyi reportedly admitted to possessing a gun in the home during police questioning.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Following his arrest and interrogation, Awobiyi was charged with murder. Court documents indicate that a remote attorney conference is scheduled for November 20 to discuss the case further.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence and youth involvement in serious crimes within Indianapolis. According to recent FBI crime statistics, Indiana has seen a 5% increase in violent crimes over the past year, underscoring the importance of community safety initiatives and law enforcement vigilance.
