Texts offer insight into Martinsville school shooting

MARTINSVILLE, Ind. (WISH) - Text messages are revealing more detail about the morning one Martinsville teen shot another.

On Friday, Michael Phelps will be sentenced. His 10-minute trial last month ended with an admission of guilt. Phelps testified he intended to kill Chance Jackson when he shot him twice on March 25 at Martinsville West Middle School.

But at the trial, Morgan County Prosecutor Steve Sonnega said Phelps wasn't looking only for Jackson that morning. He said Phelps went to the school with a gun because he was looking for notoriety.

"Chance really was just a target of opportunity,” Sonnega said. “He was the vehicle for Phelps to get the notoriety."

Phelps' attorney, Steve Litz, disagreed. He said the shooting had nothing to do with Phelps trying to making a name for himself.

Before he ever pulled the trigger and shot his former classmate twice in the stomach, Phelps was talking to friends, and Martinsville West students, warning them of what was to come. Among those he contacted was his former girlfriend.

According to police, Phelps first texted her at 6:20 a.m. Here’s some of what was communicated:

Phelps: "Did Chance say anything about him not being at school today?"

Former girlfriend: "No. Why?"

Phelps: "I hope he shows up at school."

A few minutes go by, then at 6:25 a.m., Phelps continues the conversation:

Phelps: "I'm sorry I lied."

Former girlfriend: "Why?"

Phelps: "Because I am doing something I told you I wouldn't."

Former girlfriend: "What is it?"

Phelps: "You will see when you get to school. Sorry."

Former girlfried: "Tell me now Michael."

Phelps: "I want to, but I can't".

Then at 6:39 a.m., one last text message from Phelps:

"I will tell you if I see you before I do it."

Phelps faces 20 to 50 years behind bars when he is sentenced Friday.

He and his attorney still have the right to appeal the April decision that waived the teenager to adult court.