On a late September evening in Gary, Indiana, the life of 19-year-old Jasmin Donta' Owens Jr. was tragically cut short. The male teenager, a student at West Side High School known for his bright smile and kind nature, was shot on September 28, 2020. The incident occurred around 10:48 PM in the vicinity of the 4300 block of W. 23rd Avenue.
Following the shooting, Owens was transported to Methodist Northlake Hospital. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries.
The Lake County Coroner's Office later confirmed his cause of death as a result of gunshot wounds. The initial police response to the reports of shots fired was hampered by a lack of available patrol cars and manpower at the time. The crime scene was later determined to be at 25th & Clark.
The investigation into the homicide was taken on by the Lake County Metro Homicide Unit in conjunction with the Gary Police Department. However, the case has been met with significant challenges, reportedly due to a lack of resources within the police department. To date, no arrests have been made in connection with the murder of Jasmin Owens, and no suspects have been publicly identified.
The untimely death of Jasmin has left a profound void in the lives of his family and the wider Gary community. His mother, Natasha Johnson, along with his siblings and other relatives, continue to await a break in the case that might bring them answers and a measure of peace. Authorities have urged anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. The hope for justice for Jasmin Owens endures within his community.
