A beloved member of his community, 55-year-old Cecil Wayne Pendleton Jr., was killed on the morning of May 6, 2015, in Merrillville, Indiana. A United States Air Force veteran, Pendleton was known for his generous and jovial nature, his dedication to his family, and his active involvement in youth ministry and coaching.
On that Wednesday morning, shortly after 5 a.m., as he was leaving for his job at a steel mill, Pendleton was confronted in the parking lot of the Tan Tar A Apartments.
Several men were breaking into cars when they targeted him in an apparent robbery attempt as he was getting into his van. Witnesses reported hearing someone say, 'Just leave me alone.' Pendleton sought refuge inside his van, but one of the assailants shot through the passenger window, fatally wounding him. The suspects were seen fleeing the scene. Arriving officers found Pendleton inside his vehicle, and he was transported to Methodist Hospital Southlake, where he was pronounced dead.
Later that evening, the investigation led by the Northwest Indiana Major Crimes Task Force and Merrillville police resulted in the arrest of four individuals who were considered persons of interest in the homicide. The arrests took place at a nearby hotel and in the vicinity of the crime scene, where three handguns were also recovered. While charges were pending against the four, some were formally charged with various crimes unrelated to the murder. A $10,000 reward was offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individuals responsible for Pendleton's death. His passing was a significant loss to his loved ones and the community, who remembered him for his big heart, bright smile, and willingness to always help others.
