Willie Venzell Ivy III was a 17-year-old junior at North Side High School in Fort Wayne and captain of the varsity football team. Known as Chooch, the 6 feet 1 inch, 230-pound student-athlete had received two college scholarship offers and was remembered by family for a gentle spirit and a bright smile.

On the night of Saturday, October 19, 2024, Willie attended a large high school Halloween party on Manistee Drive that had been advertised on social media and encouraged attendees to bring alcohol and marijuana. The gathering swelled to more than 100 people and became chaotic. An altercation erupted near the back door as Willie’s group tried to enter; according to investigators, Willie pulled out a handgun and fired while moving through the house. Someone who had been shot returned fire and fatally struck Willie. Police arrived after numerous 911 calls around 10:25 p.m.; the Allen County Coroner’s Office ruled the death a homicide.

Investigators say Willie shot and injured nine people at the party, aged 14 to 20. No criminal charges have been announced against the person who fired the fatal shot. The homeowner was arrested on charges related to furnishing alcohol to minors and neglect of a dependent.

If anyone attended that party or has information about what happened that night, please share what you know.