Indianapolis, IN – Indianapolis police have made an arrest in a homicide cold case dating back nearly four years, bringing new hope for justice in a long-standing investigation.
According to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), officers responded to the 7500 block of Woodlawn Ave. on November 9, 2021, after receiving a report of a vehicle fire. Upon arrival, authorities discovered a body in the trunk of the vehicle. The victim was later identified as 47-year-old Ail Smith, and the Marion County Coroner’s Office determined the cause of death to be a gunshot wound to the head, ruling the case a homicide.
IMPD Homicide detectives, working with the Marion County Forensic Services Agency and the Marion County Coroner’s Office, collected evidence and conducted extensive interviews over several years. According to police, the investigation initially stalled despite multiple search warrants and interviews. Detectives eventually located two key witnesses, one of whom allegedly saw the crime occur.
In July 2025, detectives arrested Anthony Porter for Smith’s alleged murder. Police said Porter was already in federal custody at the time for an unrelated matter. An associate, Christopher Hall, was also allegedly arrested for assisting a criminal in connection with the case. The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office will determine final charges.
“Even after years have passed, our Unsolved Homicide Unit detectives remained committed to finding answers for victims and their loved ones,” IMPD Chief Chris Bailey said in a statement. “Their efforts led to an arrest in this case, reinforcing that IMPD will not stop seeking justice for victims, no matter how long it takes.”
Police emphasize that all suspects are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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