Indianapolis – Brandon Joshua Easley, an 18-year-old basketball player at KIPP Indy Legacy High School who had just been accepted to Ball State University, was shot just before 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 23, and died at the hospital on November 24.
Police say Easley was in the parking lot of a convenience store at East Michigan Street and North Sherman Drive when a vehicle pulled up, and someone inside opened fire.
Security footage reviewed by reporters shows gunfire erupting outside and, almost simultaneously, someone inside the store drawing a handgun and firing blindly toward the front.
The store’s front windows were left with large bullet holes, and glass and debris littered the sidewalk.
Easley was found with multiple gunshot wounds and rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead the next day. Investigators are searching for the shooter’s car and have asked anyone with information to call (317) 262-TIPS.
His mother, Brandy Easley, told reporters her son “had been chasing that basketball dream since he was a kid.”
Community Mourns the Loss
An envelope with a Ball State acceptance letter arrived at the family’s mailbox minutes after an interview with Brandy.
The letter read, “You’re one step away from becoming a Ball State Cardinal.” Brandy said Brandon loved fast cars, didn’t carry weapons, and had no juvenile record.
Neighbors described a chaotic scene and suggested a nearby temporary rental on North Bradley Avenue, where a large party had been held earlier, may have been connected to the violence.
One neighbor told reporter Russ McQuaid the area is “typical” for people bringing guns and using violence to settle disputes. Another said he heard “probably two dozen” shots that night.
Family and friends are stunned. Vonne Julio Easley, who Brandon had recently moved back in with, wrote that she can’t bear going home because “all of his stuff is all over my bedroom and bathroom… I miss my boi so much.”
Those close to him added that after he was hit, Brandon asked someone to call his auntie, “he knew I’d always be there,” they said.
Keke Lewi wrote, “The least I can do is send you love & my condolences during this tough time & to reassure you that you will make it & everything will eventually be alright,” offering support to Vonne.
Michelle Ruby-Gleenn added, “I love you so much & so did Brandon. You did an excellent job raising him & he was destined for great things. God needed him more, which is why he was called home.
“You’ve suffered a lot of hurt & pain, but God has got you. Trouble/hurt doesn’t always last. Hold onto these beautiful memories & know that Aunty is here for you. I love you.”
Messages and prayers poured in across social media from neighbors, classmates, and community members who called the shooting senseless and offered support to the grieving family.
Others are also scared that similar things might happen to their kids, given the increase in Gun violence. “So sorry and so young, this makes me scared for my boys it’s crazy just madness going on,” wrote Keisha Williams.
Brandon’s high-school team was scheduled to play on Wednesday without him.
Anyone with information, dashcam or phone video, is urged to contact the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police or call (317) 262-TIPS.
