GARY, Ind. – Authorities have arrested a Gary man in reference to the deadly capturing of 42-year-old Kia Tidwell, a mom of six who was killed by a stray bullet whereas driving in September 2024.
Deadly Taking pictures
What we all know:
Gary police say Tedric Rondell Man Jr. fired the shot that killed Tidwell whereas he was focusing on one other car in a capturing close to a McDonald’s on fifth Avenue.
In response to investigators, Man Jr. was standing close to an residence complicated when he allegedly opened fireplace on an orange Dodge Charger within the restaurant’s drive-thru. Surveillance footage captured muzzle flashes from the complicated, adopted by return fireplace from the occupants of the Charger earlier than they fled. Police recovered not less than 15 shell casings on the scene.
Tidwell, who was passing by the world whereas on the cellphone along with her daughter, was hit within the head. She was pronounced lifeless on the scene.
Police linked Man Jr. to the capturing by social media posts, cellphone information inserting him on the scene an hour earlier than the assault, and suggestions from the general public.
Police paperwork additionally reference Fb posts through which Man Jr. rapped about placing “bullets all by his journey” and different lyrics that particularly point out a Charger.
What they’re saying:
At a information convention Tuesday, Tidwell’s father, Bishop James Tidwell, spoke about his daughter’s loss of life.
“When my kids have been little, I used to be their protector,” he stated. “However you realize, on this case proper right here, I could not shield my daughter as a result of I did not know this was going to occur.”
“Folks lately really want to get to the Lord… kids should not being raised lately. No dad round. Momma attempting to do it. Everyone wish to flip to medication and stuff… they shoot a lot… they want cleansing up.”
Tidwell, considered one of 10 siblings, was recognized for her kindness and generosity. Family and friends described her as a loving mom who put others earlier than herself.
Tedric Rondell Man Jr. and Kia Tidwell
What’s subsequent:
Man Jr. faces a number of felony prices, together with homicide and tried homicide. It’s unclear when he’ll seem in court docket.
READ: Possible Trigger Affidavit
