East Chicago Police Department Make An Arrest In Homicide Investigation
On August 14, 2025, at approximately 7:00 AM, East Chicago Police officers responded to reports of gunfire at 3612 Superior Court, Apartment #5.
Upon arrival, officers discovered an unresponsive male victim with a gunshot wound to the chest on the second floor. The victim was transported to St. Catherine Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The victim was identified as 22 year old Jontavis D. Pearson Jr. of East Chicago.
Initial investigation revealed approximately 11 bullet holes in the door of Apartment #5, numerous shell casings inside the unit, and additional bullet damage to neighboring Apartment #6. A juvenile person of interest was taken into custody at the scene and later released pending further investigation.
Following a thorough investigation by the Lake County Prosecutor’s Homicide Task Force, an arrest warrant was issued on September 11, 2025. On September 19, 2025, the juvenile suspect was located and taken into custody without incident. Charges include:
· Reckless Homicide
· Five counts of Criminal Recklessness
· Dangerous Possession of a Firearm by a Juvenile
The suspect was transported to the Lake County Juvenile Center. Chief Jose Rivera said, “We extend our sincere thanks to Indiana State Police Detective Gary Runde and the Lake County Prosecutor’s Homicide Task Force for their dedication and professionalism throughout this case.”
