Indianapolis, IN – A Central Indiana ride-share driver, 29-year-old Francisco Valadez, was arrested within hours of the discovery of a body in connection to a missing person case, which was later determined to be a homicide.
IMPD officers were dispatched to the 1800 block of Wagner Lane on Monday, where they found the body of 30-year-old Chanti Dixon in a wooded area. According to police, Dixon had sustained injuries consistent with gunshot wounds. Due to the circumstances, homicide detectives were called to investigate further.
During the investigation, authorities determined that Valadez, a ride-share driver, had picked up Dixon prior to her death. With the help of community members and surveillance footage, detectives identified Valadez as a person of interest. After gathering additional evidence, Valadez was arrested on suspicion of murder.
The Marion County Forensic Services Agency and the Marion County Coroner’s Office assisted in collecting evidence at the scene. The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office will review the case and make the final determination on formal charges.
Valadez remains in custody, and no further details about the motive or relationship between the suspect and victim have been released. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
