On the afternoon of October 21, 2022, police were called to the 500 block of Pennsylvania Avenue in South Bend after reports of gunfire. Officers found 16-year-old Noelle Riggins in a residential yard with gunshot wounds; the teenager was pronounced dead at the scene. Two cell phones recovered nearby became key evidence, one belonging to Riggins and the other linked to 39-year-old Sidney James Hockaday. Digital communications showed they arranged to meet so Riggins could buy marijuana.

Surveillance captured a gold-colored Chevy Tahoe stopping in front of the yard, the front passenger door opening, gunshots, and the vehicle fleeing. Witnesses identified the driver as Hockaday in a lineup. Court filings described a close, nonbiological family relationship between Riggins and Hockaday and say the meeting escalated into a robbery attempt with a struggle over a handgun inside the vehicle. Hockaday surrendered a week later and was charged with murder, dealing in marijuana and a firearm enhancement; a jury convicted him of Level 2 felony voluntary manslaughter and he pleaded guilty to the firearm enhancement. An appellate court later affirmed the manslaughter conviction and adjusted the firearm enhancement term.

If anyone knew Noelle, saw the Tahoe that day, or has additional information, please share what can help the case.