Trial Begins for Man Charged in Family's Death
UPDATE: Mistrial Declared In Case Against Indy Man Accused of Killing 6 People
Source: Judge gavel, scales of justice and law books in court
UPDATE: A judge declared a mistrial in the cae because a witness broke the rules by asking the defendant, Raymond Childs III, “Why did you do it, Raymond?”.
After a break and questioning the jury, the judge decided this could have influenced their decision. Now, the trial will need to start over with a new jury.
INDIANAPOLIS — Raymond Childs III is on trial for killing six family members at his east Indianapolis home on January 24, 2021. He faces six murder charges.
Prosecutors say Childs shot and killed his parents, Raymond and Kizzie Childs, his 13-year-old sister, Rita, his 18-year-old brother, Elijah, Elijah’s girlfriend, Kiara Hawkins, and her unborn baby. They claim the attack started upstairs and moved to the basement.
Childs could get life in prison without parole if convicted. Prosecutors also say that Childs’ then 15-year-old brother witnessed the shootings and was shot twice while trying to escape.
The defense argues that Childs is not responsible and suggests there were two shooters. They claim the case is based on a misidentification.
The brother of the child is expected to testify on Wednesday.
