Lawrence Witzke, 24, moved to South Bend and was described by friends and family as goofy, fun, and a light to many. Originally from Amsterdam, New York, and having lived in Florida, he settled in Indiana with his partner and enjoyed singing and spending time with friends.

On the evening of November 11, 2022, Lawrence was shot and killed on the porch of his home in the 1300 block of Vassar Avenue after a dispute over a lost wallet. Martinez pulled out a handgun and fired four shots, killing Lawrence; Martinez and an associate, Kyle Johnson, then fled. Lawrence’s phone and broken glasses were recovered on the porch and no weapon was found there.

Investigators charged Martinez with murder, battery resulting in moderate bodily injury, resisting law enforcement, and a firearm enhancement; Johnson was charged with felony assistance of a criminal. If anyone knew Lawrence or saw anything relevant that night, please share what might help the case.