Indianapolis, Indiana – A man has been charged with murder in connection to the 2020 death of a woman in Indianapolis. Rakeem Thompson, 32, is accused of the murder of 31-year-old Brittany Burns. The arrest comes after a lengthy investigation by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD).
The tragic incident unfolded on October 10, 2020, when IMPD officers responded to Community East Hospital. Burns was found unresponsive after being assaulted during a domestic disturbance on the southeast side of the city. Despite efforts to save her, Burns succumbed to her injuries on October 19, as reported by local authorities.
Months later, in March 2021, the Marion County Coroner’s Office confirmed Burns’ death as a homicide, citing mixed modality trauma that included asphyxia and blunt force injuries. This ruling marked a significant development in the case, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding Burns’ tragic end.
IMPD detectives tirelessly pursued leads and identified Thompson as a person of interest in the case. After years of investigation, the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office issued a murder warrant for Thompson on May 22, 2024. A coordinated effort involving the IMPD Violent Crimes Unit, IMPD K-9 Unit, and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office led to Thompson’s arrest in Shelby County on Thursday.
Thompson now faces legal proceedings, with an initial hearing scheduled for May 28, according to court records. The arrest and charges bring a sense of closure to the family and loved ones of Brittany Burns, as the wheels of justice begin to turn in her case. The IMPD’s commitment to pursuing justice for victims of violent crimes remains unwavering as they continue to investigate and seek accountability for those responsible.