Former Indiana U Football Player Fatally Shot: Trio Convicted of Murder, Says Prosecutor
On October 16, 2019, former Indiana University football player Chris Beaty was fatally shot in downtown Indianapolis during a night of protests. The shooting took place amid nationwide protests against police brutality and racial injustice following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
After a lengthy trial, three men have been convicted of murder in connection with Beaty’s death. The prosecutor in the case, Ryan Mears, said that the trio “acted with a complete disregard for human life” and that their actions were “senseless and tragic.”
The three men, Jalen Watson, Darrin Banks, and Alijah Jones, were all found guilty of murder, felony murder, robbery, and criminal confinement. They face up to life in prison without parole.
Beaty was a beloved figure in the Indianapolis community. He was a standout football player at Indiana University and went on to become a successful businessman. He was also known for his philanthropy and community involvement.
In the wake of his death, many people in Indianapolis and beyond expressed their shock and sadness. The city’s mayor, Joe Hogsett, called Beaty “a true Hoosier who dedicated himself to bettering our state and the lives of those around him.”
The trial of the three men accused of killing Beaty lasted for several weeks. During that time, prosecutors presented evidence that showed the trio had planned to rob people during the protests and that they had targeted Beaty specifically.
According to prosecutors, Watson was the shooter and Banks and Jones were his accomplices. They said that the three men had driven around downtown Indianapolis looking for potential victims before encountering Beaty.
The defense argued that there was no evidence linking the three men to Beaty’s death and that their convictions were based on circumstantial evidence. However, the jury ultimately found them guilty on all counts.
The verdict in the case has been widely praised by people in Indianapolis and beyond. Many have said that it sends a message that violence and lawlessness will not be tolerated, even during times of unrest.
In a statement after the verdict was announced, Beaty’s family thanked the prosecutors and police for their work on the case. They also expressed their hope that the verdict would bring some measure of closure to the community.
“Chris was a kind and generous person who loved his family, friends, and community,” the statement read. “We hope that this verdict will help bring justice for Chris and peace to our city.”
