A 20-year-old man in Indianapolis is facing criminal charges after authorities say his girlfriend was fatally shot while the two were handling a firearm inside a home.
Charges and Arrest
Louis Jenkins Jr. has been charged with reckless homicide in the death of 21-year-old Rebecca Carter. According to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, officers responded to a home on Carlyle Place around 11:45 p.m. on April 1 after reports of a shooting.
Details of the Incident
When officers arrived, they found Carter with a gunshot wound. She was taken to a hospital in critical condition but later died from her injuries. Investigators said several people, including a juvenile and young children, were inside the home at the time.
Conflicting Accounts
A juvenile witness told police the couple had been “playing” with a gun while sitting on a couch during a FaceTime call. According to that account, Carter was handling the weapon when it discharged.
Jenkins gave a different version, telling investigators that he retrieved his firearm after another person pointed a gun at him. He said his finger slipped while the weapon was pointed at Carter, causing it to fire.
Statements After the Shooting
Witnesses reported hearing Jenkins express immediate regret, allegedly saying he had a round in the chamber. Authorities said he later admitted he had been handling the weapon irresponsibly. After the shooting, he removed the magazine, discarded the gun and attempted to help Carter before calling for assistance.
Prosecutors Highlight Gun Safety Concerns
Ryan Mears said the case underscores the dangers of mishandling firearms, describing the incident as a situation where careless behavior led to a fatal outcome.
Case Status
Jenkins has since appeared in court and was released after posting a $40,000 bond. He is scheduled to return for a pretrial conference on June 2 as the case moves forward.
Remembering the Victim
Family members described Carter as vibrant and full of life, emphasizing the sudden and tragic nature of her death.
