East Chicago Gas Station Killer Sentenced to 82 Years in Prison
CROWN POINT — A Gary man has been sentenced to 82 years in prison following a deadly shooting at an East Chicago gas station that left one man dead and another seriously injured.
On Tuesday, July 30, 2025, Maurice Berry Jr. was sentenced in Lake County Court after being convicted of voluntary manslaughter, attempted murder, and operating a loaded machine gun, with an additional enhancement for using a firearm during the offense.
The charges stem from a March 30, 2024 shooting at the BP gas station at 4502 Indianapolis Boulevard. Surveillance video captured Berry entering the store with a concealed weapon before opening fire inside the building. Prosecutors say Berry fired a rapid volley of shots at a man he mistakenly believed to be a threat, wounding that individual—Maurice Garrett—and killing 47-year-old Javier Aguilar, an innocent bystander and father who had just gone inside to buy soda.
Investigators determined that Berry used a modified Glock handgun capable of fully automatic fire, discharging twelve rounds in just seconds. The surviving victim, Garrett, suffered a shattered arm and lodged bullet fragments in his chest.
The gas station’s security footage, witness interviews, and physical evidence helped law enforcement identify Berry as the shooter. The vehicle Berry used to flee the scene was later traced to his girlfriend, and multiple witnesses—including Garrett and Berry’s ex-girlfriend—positively identified him.
Lake County Prosecutor Bernard Carter praised the collaborative efforts of Deputy Prosecutors Lindsey Lanham and Tim Brown, along with Detective James Nielsen, the Homicide Task Force, and the Gary Police Department.
“This case reflects the strength of collaboration between our legal team and law enforcement,” said Carter. “We remain committed to seeking justice for victims and holding violent offenders accountable.”
