A 14-year-old boy has been detained in connection to the fatal shooting of a 23-year-old man in a downtown Indianapolis parking garage.
According to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, officers detained a juvenile boy on the west side of Indianapolis on Wednesday in connection with Brett Scrogham’s killing.
Scrogham was shot on May 28 at a parking garage near the Indiana Convention Center. He was transferred to a hospital, where he eventually died. The Marion County Coroner’s Office said that he died from a gunshot wound to the head.
Homicide detectives said they identified the adolescent guy as a suspect in the case after analyzing garage surveillance footage, other evidence, and witness interviews. The police report confirms the boy is 14 years old.
“While today’s arrest is significant, my heart breaks for everyone impacted by this tragedy. “A young man died, and another now faces allegations that will change his life forever,” IMPD Chief Tanya Terry said in a statement. “This arrest is the result of countless hours of dedicated work by our IMPD detectives, officers, and (US Marshals). While today’s announcement is a significant step forward in the inquiry, it cannot cure or alleviate the anguish experienced by Mr. Scrogham’s family, friends, and loved ones. This case is a tragic reminder that a single act of violence can alter countless lives in an instant.”
For those who knew him, Scrogham’s death has left a lasting void.
Cassandra Sawyer stated that her family grew close to Scrogham’s family approximately ten years ago after meeting through a speech and debate group. Brett and his family greeted them warmly and made them feel comfortable.We came in, and this family and Brett absolutely loved on us and poured directly just into our hearts and into our souls,” Sawyer said.
Sawyer described Scrogham as diligent, humble, and devoted to his faith.He was one of the most hardworking, caring, humble, God-fearing, just loving men I’ve truly ever had the pleasure of calling my friend,” she said.
Scrogham had just celebrated his 23rd birthday and graduated from Indiana University. Sawyer said he was known for encouraging others and always wanting the best for his friends and family.
“He was everyone’s biggest supporter and someone who actually encouraged you. “It always started with love,” Sawyer explained.
She said Scrogham had ambitious goals and a bright future ahead of him.
“”You hear stories about tragic things happening, and you never believe it will happen to you until it does,” she explained.
Although the arrest provides some solace, Sawyer and others continue to seek answers.”I’m glad to see they’re making progress and getting the justice he deserves,” she added.
As the investigation continues, Sawyer said she hopes to honor Scrogham’s legacy by living out the values he demonstrated every day.
“His life meant so much, but I want his death to mean something, too. He demonstrated what hard work, moderation, and genuine joy and satisfaction in Christ look like. That’s the kind of life I want to live,” she said.
The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office will determine the final charges in the case.
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