South Bend, IN – Two individuals have been arrested and charged this week in connection with a July homicide in South Bend that left a 25-year-old man dead.
According to the South Bend Police Department, the charges stem from a fatal shooting that occurred around 3 a.m. Saturday, July 26, in the 3900 block of Sheridan Plaza. Officers arriving on the scene found Donovan Russell suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead shortly after.
Authorities allege that 27-year-old Amante Vazquez and 23-year-old Savannah Ragan were involved in the incident. Through a joint investigation with the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office, both individuals were formally charged. Vazquez faces one count of murder and one count of firearm enhancement. Ragan is charged with aiding, inducing or causing murder.
According to officials, detectives used sealed warrants and conducted multiple investigative efforts to determine the suspects’ locations. After their identities were confirmed, the information was shared with law enforcement partners including the U.S. Marshals Task Force, Indiana State Police, and Michigan City Police Department. Vazquez and Ragan were taken into custody Tuesday, July 29, in Michigan City.
If convicted, Vazquez could face 45 to 65 years for the murder charge and an additional 5 to 20 years for firearm enhancement. Ragan also faces a possible sentence of 45 to 65 years.
Both suspects are currently being held at the St. Joseph County Jail without bond. Vazquez’s initial court appearance is scheduled for Monday, August 4, while Ragan’s is set for August 11.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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