Indianapolis police are in an active manhunt for 39-year-old Javon Cushenberry after a weekend shooting on the city’s west side left a woman dead and a man clinging to life. Officers were called to the scene and found a wounded man on a front porch, then discovered a woman inside the home. She was rushed to a hospital, where she later died, authorities said. The man remains in critical condition.
Investigators say Cushenberry is still on the run and should be considered armed and dangerous. U.S. Marshals and local Crime Stoppers groups are now putting up reward money for information that leads to his arrest.
Reward and how to tip
Both the U.S. Marshals Service and Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana are offering monetary rewards for tips that help track down Cushenberry, according to WRTV. Anyone who sees him or knows where he might be is urged to call Crime Stoppers at 317-262-TIPS (8477). Tipsters can remain anonymous.
Detectives are also looking for any information that might clarify what led up to the shooting. Anyone with details about the case is asked to contact IMPD Homicide Detective Steven Gray at 317-327-3475 or by email at [email protected], WRTV reported.
IMPD warns suspect is armed
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department has taken the search public on X, warning that Cushenberry should be considered “armed and extremely dangerous,” according to IMPD. The department also said the Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force is helping track him down.
The IMPD post, which has been shared by local media outlets, reiterates that both the U.S. Marshals and Crime Stoppers have put up rewards in the case as the search widens.
Victim identified and investigators' theory
The Marion County Coroner’s Office has identified the woman who died as 33-year-old Rachael Lynn Rakes. Officials say the shooting happened around 12:35 a.m. near Westbrook Avenue and West Washington Street, according to WISH-TV.
Investigators told WISH-TV they believe the attack was targeted, though they are still working to pin down a clear motive and timeline. Police are urging neighbors in the area to review any home or business surveillance footage and to report anything that looks suspicious.
What to watch for
Authorities are warning residents not to approach Cushenberry if they see him. Instead, they should immediately call 911, or contact Crime Stoppers at 317-262-TIPS (8477) to submit an anonymous tip.
The investigation remains active, and IMPD says it will continue to update the public as new information develops.
