Indianapolis, Indiana – A 19-year-old Indiana teenager, Antwan Hayes, has been arrested and charged with murder and burglary with a deadly weapon stemming from a fatal shooting incident in November that left one man dead. Authorities say the violence was linked to a personal dispute involving Hayes’ ex-girlfriend.
The incident, unfolding in the early hours of November 11, 2025, resulted in the death of 23-year-old Kenneth Anthony Murff Jr. According to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Hayes turned himself in on January 1, after being on the run for several weeks.
Investigations suggest that Hayes had been issuing threats following a breakup with his ex-girlfriend, vowing to harm anyone she dated in the future. Although Murff was not romantically involved with Hayes’ ex-girlfriend, his brother was. Hayes, apparently trying to confront his ex-girlfriend, tragically targeted Murff instead.
As details emerge, it appears the young woman had tried to hide her new relationship from Hayes to avoid confrontation. However, on that fateful morning, as she arrived at her boyfriend’s house, Hayes soon followed. Despite failed attempts to engage her at the door, Hayes escalated the situation.
Eyewitness accounts and home surveillance video suggest Hayes, armed and agitated, approached the residence. After his demands for entry were refused, he allegedly fired shots through a side window, fatally wounding Murff, who was inside the house at the time.
The aftermath of the shooting saw Murff rushed to the hospital in critical condition; however, he succumbed to his injuries. Meanwhile, Hayes and his ex-girlfriend fled the scene together in her vehicle. She later described to police feeling overwhelmed and fearful, not believing Hayes would act on his threats.
Hayes’ surrender to police brought some relief to the community, even as the investigation continues. He is now held without bond at Marion County Jail, and his preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 3. Authorities have withheld further comments as they prepare for the upcoming court proceedings.
This case underscores the complexities and dangers of personal disputes escalating to violence. It also highlights the broader issues surrounding gun violence and domestic relationships, a pattern increasingly seen in urban crime statistics. As the legal process unfolds, the community and families involved await justice for the tragic loss of Kenneth Anthony Murff Jr.