On the evening of March 25, 2023, a violent encounter on Interstate 70 in Indianapolis cut short the life of 30-year-old Anthony Shelman Jr. A Black male, Shelman Jr. was a resident of the city and a devoted father. While he was driving his Nissan Altima, occupants of another vehicle opened fire, striking both him and his 35-year-old passenger multiple times. The barrage of bullets caused Shelman Jr.
to lose control of his car and crash near the intersection of East 21st Street and Emerson Avenue on the city's east side.
First responders arrived at the chaotic scene to find both men suffering from gunshot wounds. They were rushed to a nearby hospital, but Shelman Jr.'s injuries proved to be too severe, and he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. His passenger, fortunately, survived with non-life-threatening injuries. The Indiana State Police took charge of the investigation, noting that this tragic event was part of a disturbing increase in interstate shootings in the area. In the wake of his son's death, Anthony Shelman Sr. mourned the loss of a good person and a loving father who was deeply involved in his children's lives.
The investigation into the homicide led authorities to a residence on the southwest side of Indianapolis. While executing a search warrant, investigators discovered methamphetamine, leading to the arrest of two individuals. Julius Willis was taken into custody and subsequently charged with the murder of Anthony Shelman Jr. and the attempted murder of the surviving passenger. Another individual, 24-year-old Krishawna Cleveland, was arrested and faced charges of dealing and possession of methamphetamine. A third person was also arrested in connection with the incident.
