Michiana Unsolved: Who Killed Ronnie Ciesielski?

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) – Thirty years have passed, but the sounds from the crime scene are still just as haunting.

On May 28, 1994, South Bend police were called to the 200 block of N. Kenmore Street.

“Ronnie was in the house. There was probably a knock on the door and then three people entered the house. After a small struggle, shots were fired and the shots hit Ronnie,” explains Lt. Kayla Miller of Michiana Crime Stoppers.

19-year-old Ronnie Ciesielski was found with gunshot wounds. Life-saving measures were taken, but it was too late. He succumbed to his injuries at home.

His sister told us that he was at a friend’s house when this all happened.

Investigators believe three men were involved. They are described as three black males, aged in their late teens to early 20s, who ran from the house approximately three to four minutes before police were called. They were then seen fleeing the area.

“Investigators tell me they have leads and persons of interest in this case. Again, we are just missing a few very small pieces that we hope to put together,” says Lt. Miller.

If you have any information, you are asked to contact Michiana Crime Stoppers. Every single tip is 100% anonymous.

“If nothing else, it reminds people that we haven’t forgotten Ronnie,” says Lt. Miller. “If you’re out there and you have information, just put yourself in their shoes.”

If your tip leads to a solution to the case or an arrest, you are eligible for a $2,500 cash reward.

“Once we can give them the answers they are looking for, everything in their world will change,” explains Lt. Miller.

You can reach Michiana Crime Stoppers at 574-288-STOP (7867). You can also submit a tip online.

Christine Karsten met with Ronnie’s sister and childhood friend to learn more about this case. You can watch their entire conversation in the video below: