Malik Shaw: Indianapolis man charged with triple murder in apartment complex shooting

Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.

LAWRENCE, INDIANAPOLIS: Malik Shaw, a 24-year-old Indianapolis man, faces three counts of murder following his formal charging in connection with a triple homicide at a central Indiana apartment complex.

The Marion County prosecutors brought forth the charges on Wednesday, April 17, stemming from the fatal shootings that occurred just last week in Lawrence, a city within Indianapolis's northeastern bounds, the Associated Press reported.

Malik Shaw's cell phone was found near the shooting scene

The charges against Shaw were issued days after law enforcement officers discovered the bodies of two women and a man on April 12 at a Lawrence apartment complex. The victims were identified as Aaliyah Wortman, 19, of Marion; Londyn Coleman, 19, of Warsaw; and Spencer Lawson Jr., 27, of Indianapolis.

Prosecutors noted that Shaw's cellphone was discovered near the scene of the shooting, adding weight to the evidence against him.

Maintenance worker describes dramatic encounter amid fatal shooting

According to a probable cause affidavit, an apartment complex maintenance worker reported hearing gunshots before witnessing someone chasing a man and firing at him.

In response, the employee retrieved his pistol and pursued the individuals, encountering "two suspects" wearing masks. He fired at one of them, believing he had struck them at least once.

Legal proceedings and ongoing investigation following Malik Shaw's arrest

Malik Shaw's arrest took place on Tuesday, April 16, and he remains in custody without bond. He appeared in court on Thursday, April 18, for an initial hearing, although online court records do not indicate legal representation for him at this time.

As of Thursday afternoon, no further arrests had been announced in connection with the triple homicide. The investigation into the tragic incident continues, with authorities working diligently to bring justice to the victims and their families.

Shaw's next court appearance for the charges in connection with the triple homicide is scheduled for an April 23 status of counsel hearing. 

Anyone with additional information related to this case is urged to contact the Lawrence Police Department at 317-545-7575 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 317-262-TIPS.