Raymond Childs III, a 21-year-old Indianapolis man, was convicted of six counts of murder, attempted murder, and carrying a handgun without a license in the shooting deaths of five people in January 2021, including his father, stepmother, two siblings, and his brother’s girlfriend who was pregnant. The incident followed an argument over Childs staying out late. The jury deliberated for three hours before reaching the guilty verdict, despite a mistrial declared in his first trial due to a witness verbally confronting Childs in front of the jury. Prosecutors said Childs methodically went from room to room, shooting the victims, with his 15-year-old brother being the only survivor after fleeing the house during the attack.
Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears called the crime “unfathomable” and the verdict provided justice for the victims and their families. Childs is facing 40 to 65 years in prison for each murder count, 20 to 40 years for attempted murder, and one to six years for the handgun charge. His sentencing is scheduled for January 7. The prosecutor expressed pride in the trial team, law enforcement, and witnesses for their dedication in seeking justice for the victims despite facing adversity.
Childs’ attorney did not immediately return a request for comment on the verdict. The conviction marks the conclusion of a five-day trial that shed light on the tragic loss of six lives in a senseless act of violence.
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