Pastors fear retaliation after murder of local rapper

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Brandon McMitchell is described as a 19-year-old who loved life, loved to write, but on Sunday night he lost his life.

McMitchell was a rising rap star who family members say signed a recording deal. His future was cut short after he was shot and killed near 30th Street and Andrew J. Brown.

Investigators believe he may have been a member of local gang called the Luchi Boys.

Four days later near 46th and Keystone there was another murder. One man was found shot to death inside a studio, and another man was found with several gunshot wounds several blocks away in CVS parking lot.

Members with the Ten Point Coalition believe the two men were targeted solely because they knew a rival gang called Bad News. According to Ten Point leaders Bad News and Luchi are two rival gangs.

Police are trying to determine if the two murders are connected. However, the Ten Point Coalition has no doubt. Rev. Charles Harrison tells 24-Hour News 8 that the shooting started all over a rap song.

He adds that many were angry with McMitchell’s death and they wanted revenge. Members with Ten Point are now working with IMPD to try to prevent a future retaliation.

Police have yet to release the identity of the second murder victim. However, there will be a prayer vigil in honor of the victim at 46th and Keystone Friday night at 6:30 p.m.