Gary — A death investigation that began with a welfare check Sunday has now led to murder charges after a detailed investigation by the Gary Police Department and the Lake County Prosecutor’s Homicide Task Force.
According to authorities, officers were dispatched at approximately 4:01 p.m. on April 12, 2026, to the 2200 block of Rhode Island Street after concerned friends from the victim’s church went to check on his wellbeing. Those individuals reported observing what appeared to be a body inside the residence.
Gary Police officers entered the home and discovered a deceased male in a bedroom. Court documents state the body was found on the floor, wrapped in blankets and sheets, with duct tape around the feet, and was in a state of decomposition.
The victim has since been identified as Darryl Miller, 71, of Gary.
During the investigation, officers determined Miller’s vehicle was missing from the residence. The vehicle was later located in Porter County in the possession of Cameion Askia Brown, 19, of Michigan City.
Police say Brown fled from a Westville Police officer, initiating a pursuit that continued onto Interstate 94 near the 26-mile marker, where a Town of Porter Police officer executed a PIT maneuver, bringing the pursuit to an end. Brown was taken into custody at the scene. Brown stated he ran from the police because “I am done like fried chicken.”
Through witness interviews, investigators identified Brown as the last known individual seen with Miller.
According to court documents, Brown was interviewed by detectives after being advised of his constitutional rights. Investigators noted he was wearing shoes consistent with impressions believed to have been left at the scene.
Brown initially told investigators he was homeless and claimed he had stolen the vehicle. However, during questioning, he admitted to being inside the residence with Miller, whom he referred to as “Pops.”
Brown told investigators the two had attended church together days prior. He alleged that an altercation occurred inside the home, during which he repeatedly struck Miller during a physical confrontation.
According to the affidavit, Brown stated Miller was left on the floor following the assault. He later returned and wrapped the victim in blankets. Investigators say Brown ultimately admitted to causing Miller’s death.
An autopsy conducted by the Lake County Coroner’s Office determined Miller sustained multiple blunt force trauma injuries to the head and torso. Additional findings included injuries consistent with defensive wounds, as well as significant internal trauma. The preliminary manner of death was ruled a homicide.
On April 14, 2026, Detective James Nielsen secured formal charges against Brown. He is charged with:
• Murder
• Auto Theft
If convicted, Brown faces up to 65 years in prison.
The investigation involved multiple assisting agencies, including:
• Indiana State Police
• Indiana State Excise Police
• East Chicago Police Department
• Gary Police Department
• Lake County Coroner’s Office
• Lake County CSI Division
• Town of Porter Police Department
Authorities continue to emphasize that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Officials say the incident appears to be isolated, with no ongoing threat to the public.
Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Detective Nielsen with the Lake County Prosecutor’s Homicide Task Force at 219-755-3855.
