A man is dead after today's shooting on Indianapolis' east side, authorities say. Officers found the victim in the 200 block of South Franklin Road, and he was taken to a nearby hospital, where he later died. The Marion County Coroner has identified him as 35-year-old Eric D. Butler. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department says the killing is now a homicide investigation.
IMPD officers were called to the South Franklin Road address in the pre-dawn hours and discovered Butler suffering from gunshot wounds, according to FOX59. The outlet reports that Butler was transported to an area hospital and later pronounced dead. FOX59 notes that Detective Kristina Friel is listed as the lead detective, with the Homicide Office phone number and her email provided for tips.
Investigation and how to help
IMPD's Homicide Office can be reached at 317-327-3475, according to WRTV. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-TIPS (8477), per Crime Stoppers. Detectives have not released any suspect information and say they are reviewing available evidence and any video they can get their hands on. Investigators are asking anyone with home security or dashcam footage from the area to check recordings from the early-morning hours and share anything that might help.
East-side trend
This latest killing adds to a run of recent east-side violence that local news outlets and community organizations have been tracking through the spring, prompting fresh calls for residents to work closely with detectives. Hoodline has chronicled multiple recent shootings on the east side, and police continue to urge anyone with information or video to step forward. Community leaders say quick tips and clear surveillance clips often spell the difference between a cold case and an arrest.
IMPD's homicide unit says the investigation into Butler's death is very much active. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Kristina Friel using the phone or email listed in the report, or reach out to the Homicide Office or Crime Stoppers directly. Police are specifically asking residents with home security footage, dashcam video, or other relevant information to contact investigators so they can piece together what led up to the shooting. No details on a motive or possible suspects were immediately released.
