On a tragic day in Indianapolis, 22-year-old David Dean Smith II’s life was cut short. A graduate of Perry Meridian High School, he was known for his intelligence and loyalty. Smith had earned a certificate from the fire and rescue program at Central Nine Career Center and was working as a warehouse associate at Ulta Beauty Company with aspirations of pursuing a degree in Information Technology.
The fatal incident occurred on December 9, 2018, inside a residence on the south side of
Indianapolis, in the 3200 block of S. Oxford Street. It was there that Allen Chadwick Fender, then 29 years old, confronted and shot Smith in the chest. Following the shooting, Fender fled the scene in a maroon Hyundai Elantra. Smith was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition but ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
The investigation into Smith's death was significantly aided by members of the community. Witnesses who saw the maroon Hyundai Elantra leaving the scene were able to provide law enforcement with the vehicle's license plate number. This crucial piece of information led investigators to identify Fender as the primary suspect. Further witness testimony confirmed that Fender was the individual responsible for the shooting, leading to his arrest.
After a three-day jury trial, Allen Chadwick Fender was found guilty of the murder of David Dean Smith II. On April 6, 2022, Fender was sentenced to 58 years in prison for the crime. Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears emphasized the vital role that community cooperation played in solving the case and bringing justice to Smith and his family.
