Two deaths classified as homicides after months of investigation

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — After months of investigation, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department on Sunday classified two deaths as homicides.

On Tuesday, January 23, 2024, IMPD officers were dispatched to a local hospital for a report of a person being abused. When officers arrived, they found an adult male outside suffering injuries consistent with trauma.

Further investigation revealed that the incident occurred in the 4900 block of Media Drive. IMPD detectives responded and identified the alleged suspect as 53-year-old William Spann Jr. With assistance from IMPD’s Special Weapons and Tactics Unit, Spann Jr. was taken into custody without further incident.

On Sunday, March 31, 2024, the victim was pronounced dead by medical personnel. On Friday, June 14, 2024, the Marion County Coroner’s Office assisted and determined the exact manner and cause of death and ruled it a homicide. The Marion County Coroner’s Office will release the name of the deceased once the victim’s family has been properly notified.

Spann Jr. was initially arrested for domestic violence with serious bodily injury. The case has now been turned over to the Homicide Unit, which is coordinating with the Marion County District Attorney’s Office to update the charges and make a final decision. Spann Jr. remains in custody.

Investigators are asking anyone with information about this incident to contact Detective Katie Gourley at 317-327-3475 or via email at [email protected].

Dogie Street

On Friday, June 14, 2024, IMPD officers were dispatched to the 3500 block of Dogie Road for a report of a person being stabbed. When officers arrived, they found an adult male outside suffering injuries consistent with trauma. Indianapolis EMS arrived and transported the victim to an area hospital in critical condition. At the scene, officers arrested a suspicious individual, later identified as 59-year-old Timothy Lisby.

IMPD Homicide and Assault Unit investigators responded to the scene to further investigate. The Indianapolis-Marion County Forensic Services Agency was on scene to identify and collect possible forensic evidence. After conducting interviews and further investigation, Lisby was arrested.

On Saturday, June 15, 2024, the victim was pronounced dead by medical personnel. The Marion County Coroner’s Office is assisting with the investigation and will determine the exact cause and manner of death. MCCO will release the name of the deceased once the victim’s family has been properly notified.

Lisby was initially arrested on a charge of aggravated assault. The case has now been turned over to homicide detectives, who will consult with the Marion County District Attorney’s Office to update the charges and make a final determination. Lisby remains in custody.

Investigators are asking anyone with information about this incident to contact Detective Anthony Johnson at 317-327-3475 or via email at [email protected].