Raymond Childs III, a 21-year-old Indianapolis man, was convicted of six counts of murder in the shooting deaths of five people, including family members and a pregnant woman, in January 2021. The victims included his father, stepmother, sister, brother, and his brother’s girlfriend, who was pregnant. Childs was also convicted of attempted murder and carrying a handgun without a license. The killings occurred following an argument over Childs staying out late when he was 17 years old. He methodically went from room to room, shooting the victims. His 15-year-old brother survived after fleeing the house. Childs’ first trial ended in a mistrial after a witness verbally confronted him in front of the jury.
Prosecutor Ryan Mears called the crime unfathomable and stated that the verdict provided justice for the victims. Childs’ sentencing was scheduled for January, where he faces 40 to 65 years in prison on each murder count, 20 to 40 years for attempted murder, and one to six years for the handgun charge. The prosecutor praised the dedication of the trial team, law enforcement, and witnesses in seeking justice for the victims. It has been a difficult journey for the victims’ family and friends, but they have persevered in seeking justice for the horrific crimes committed by Childs. An update from Childs’ attorney seeking comment was not immediately available.
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