LAFAYETTE, Ind. – The city of Lafayette, Indiana, has seen a troubling rise in homicides in 2023, with seven reported cases so far. This number is unusual for the area, as both West Lafayette police and the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office have not encountered any homicides in their precincts during this time.
One of the most notable cases was the killing of 18-year-old Anthony Holdbrook on New Year’s Day. Holdbrook was fatally shot after a failed gun transaction and, after a four-month investigation, five individuals were arrested on suspicion of his murder.
Another tragic incident occurred when Michael McCord was fatally shot in front of the Bay Pointe Apartments, marking another violent killing in the city.
The year also saw a mother, Tracy Bondurant, tragically taking the life of her 5-year-old daughter before turning the weapon on herself. Additionally, a case involving the beating death of a 4-year-old boy by his cousin further shook the community.
Drug-related violence also made headlines, including a deadly dispute over a marijuana deal that resulted in a shootout, as well as a fatal stabbing after a series of threatening text messages.
This surge in homicides is a cause for concern in Lafayette, as the city has seen a higher-than-average number of cases in the past few years. In 2018, only four homicides were reported, three of which were deemed to be self-defense. The recent spike in violent deaths is prompting local authorities to reassess public safety measures and address the root causes of these tragic incidents.
In light of these events, the community in Lafayette is grappling with the impact of these senseless acts of violence, and efforts are being made to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.