A 30-year-old man was shot Thursday evening at the long-troubled Budget 8 Inn on Indianapolis' east side and later died at a hospital, according to police, adding yet another grim entry to the motel's reputation.
IMPD says officers were called around 6:25 p.m. to the Budget 8 Inn near East 21st Street and North Shadeland Avenue. According to FOX59, the victim was identified as 30-year-old Joshua Thompson. He was taken to a hospital where he later died. Police detained a suspected shooter for questioning, but no arrest had been made as of the latest update.
"You know this was a tragic incident. Someone lost a loved one and family member, and we want the public to help us solve this," IMPD officer Bryan Reed said, urging residents not to settle disputes with violence, as quoted by FOX59. Investigators said they are canvassing the motel, checking for surveillance video and working to determine a possible motive.
History Of Violence At The Budget 8 Inn
The Budget 8 Inn has been linked to several fatal shootings over the past few years. Local reports document homicides at the property in November 2020, May 2021, December 2021 and multiple deaths in 2023. Neighbors and former guests have repeatedly raised alarms about safety at the East 21st Street motel, as reported by WISH-TV.
Owner's Legal Fight With The City
Federal court records show motel owner Kartik Patel and PMK Corporation sued the city after officials denied a license-renewal application and the owners sought to block a closure order in early 2024, according to federal court documents. The case reflects a long-running clash between regulators and the property, keeping the inn in the legal and political spotlight while nearby residents continue to push for tougher action.
IMPD Asks For Tips
Detectives are asking anyone with information about the shooting to email Detective Tyann Lambert at [email protected], call Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-8477 to remain anonymous, or contact the IMPD Homicide Office at 317-327-3475, as reported by WRTV. Police say homicide investigators will continue following up on leads and interviewing witnesses as the case moves forward.
