Washington County, IN – Indiana State Police have announced an additional arrest and upgraded charges in an ongoing homicide investigation stemming from a fatal shooting and vehicle crash that killed a Salem teenager earlier this month.
According to Indiana State Police, 20-year-old Isaiah J. Lambert of Salem surrendered Wednesday and was taken into custody on a warrant issued through Washington County Superior Court.
Following an initial hearing, prosecutors amended Lambert’s charges to include murder, felony murder, attempted murder, felony attempted murder, intimidation, dealing a controlled substance and pointing a firearm at another person.
The investigation began after a June 13 shooting and subsequent crash in rural Washington County. Authorities previously identified the victim as 17-year-old Hunter Blaine Rowley of Pekin.
Investigators allege the incident originated from a drug-related robbery involving suspected THC vape cartridges at a residence near Salem. Approximately two hours later, individuals connected to the dispute allegedly encountered each other again near Big Springs Church, where gunfire erupted.
According to police, Rowley was struck by gunfire before the vehicle he occupied left the roadway and overturned in a wooded area. He later died from his injuries.
State police said three other individuals have already been arrested in connection with the investigation. Charges against those suspects include aiding murder, aiding attempted murder, intimidation, false informing, drug-related offenses and firearm violations.
Authorities said detectives reviewed witness statements, electronic communications and video evidence during the investigation, ultimately identifying multiple individuals believed to have participated in or assisted with the events leading to the shooting.
The investigation remains active. Indiana State Police emphasized that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Additional charges and arrests remain possible as investigators continue reviewing evidence.
