Father of 4 gunned down in weekend shooting

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Four children in Indianapolis will be without their father for Christmas this year. He was gunned down in a shooting in Indianapolis during the weekend.

It is certainly not the way the Howard family wants to spend this holiday season. Instead of sorting out presents they will be sorting out a funeral for Dell Howard Jr.

Dell Howard said his son went to a party Saturday night and that led to Howard Jr. lifeless next to a car found Sunday morning at 25th and LaSalle streets.

“It was a real tough call because I was getting ready for church and it was a real tough call,” Howard Sr. said. 

His 13-year-old son, Dell Howard III, said, “He was a good man. Always taking care of us. Always trying to do stuff for us.” 

Howard Sr. said his son frequently went to church and recently coached a youth football team to an undefeated season. 

“He was a good coach. Everybody liked him,” young Howard said. 

“It’s a hell of a loss,” the elder Howard added. 

He was set to start a new job Tuesday and to be married next year. 

“He would do all kinds of things for you. As far as someone taking his life like that, all I can do is say please please turn yourself in,” the victim’s father said. 

Now, four children — Howard III is the oldest — are without the man they looked up to.

“Their granddad got them, there’s no doubt about it. Their granddad has got them,” the elder Howard said.

He then grabbed hold of his grandson. 

Anyone with information on this shooting was asked to call 317-262-8477.