In the late hours of a Friday night in Indianapolis, the life of Miri Santo Tong, a 37-year-old Black female, was tragically cut short. On March 29, 2024, police were called to an apartment building in the 4800 block of East Michigan Street, near the intersection with Emerson Avenue, following a report of a person shot. Upon their arrival at approximately 11 p.m., officers were unable to gain entry to the apartment and had to force their way inside. There, they discovered Ms.
Tong, who had sustained a fatal gunshot wound. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Marion County Coroner's Office later confirmed the cause of death as a homicide. Miri, who was born in Khartoum, Sudan, on February 9, 1987, had immigrated to the United States in 1999 at the age of 12 with her mother and younger sister through the Exodus Refugee Immigration Program. Described by those who knew her as a bright soul who radiated kindness and compassion, she was a mother to two daughters and was anticipating the birth of her first grandchild. She was known for her infectious smile and her dedication to helping others in her community by connecting them with essential resources. A proud moment in her life was when she became a United States citizen, an accomplishment she deeply valued while still honoring her Sudanese heritage.
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is actively investigating her death. As of the latest available information, no suspects have been identified and no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. Detectives are continuing to seek information from the public to piece together the events that led to her death. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the IMPD Homicide Office.
