A late-night shooting in downtown Indianapolis has led to serious criminal charges—but the case is quickly becoming more complicated as the accused man’s family pushes back against the official version of events.
The incident occurred around 2 a.m. on March 7 near the intersection of Washington and Pennsylvania streets. According to police reports, surveillance footage appears to show two men—identified as Lamonte Thomas and Jamar Thomas—approaching another individual and grabbing at his waist. Investigators say the victim believed the men were attempting to take his firearm.
What followed turned deadly. During the confrontation, the man pulled out his weapon and fired, striking 45-year-old Jamar Thomas. He was later transported to Eskenazi Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries on March 24.
In the aftermath, Lamonte Thomas was arrested and charged with robbery, criminal confinement, and battery. Authorities maintain that the evidence, including video footage, supports these charges. Police have also stated that all collected evidence was handed over to prosecutors, who ultimately made the decision to file charges.
However, the narrative is being strongly disputed by the Thomas family. Speaking publicly, relatives claim the situation has been misrepresented. According to them, the man who fired the gun was the aggressor—allegedly threatening to “kill anybody” before the confrontation escalated. They argue that Lamonte Thomas was not committing a crime but instead trying to protect others in a tense and dangerous moment.
At a recent news conference, an emotional family member described Lamonte as a hardworking and dedicated individual, expressing frustration and heartbreak over how the case is unfolding. She emphasized her close relationship with him and questioned why more transparency hasn’t been provided.
The family is now calling for a deeper investigation and clearer communication from authorities, saying they want the full truth to come out.
As of now, Lamonte Thomas remains in custody at the Marion County Jail. Court records indicate that he made his initial appearance on March 10, and the case is expected to proceed through the legal system in the coming weeks.
With conflicting accounts from law enforcement and the accused’s family, the case raises broader questions about self-defense, intent, and how quickly situations can escalate into tragedy. The final outcome will likely depend on how the evidence—including surveillance footage and witness testimony—is interpreted in court.
