The year’s first homicide in Indianapolis occurred in the early hours of January 2, 2026, when 17-year-old Lamar Dominic Miller Jr. was found inside a single vehicle that had struck a tree in the 800 block of North Tuxedo Street, near 10th Street and North Sherman Drive. Officers initially treated the scene as a crash, but first responders discovered Miller Jr. had sustained a gunshot wound. He was the sole occupant, was taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition, and later died; the Marion County Coroner’s Office identified him.

Raised by his grandmother, Lamar was a Warren Central High School student who loved cars and took part in the Warren Wrestling Academy. Those who knew him remembered his knowledge of automotive mechanics and described him as kind and respectful. IMPD’s homicide unit is investigating; detectives believe the crash resulted from the shooting, have been canvassing for witnesses and video, and say they do not believe there is an ongoing threat. No arrests or suspects have been publicly identified.

If anyone has information about what happened that night, contact IMPD Detective Michael Wright or Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana.