A 16-year-old Indiana boy, Emanuel Carter, is facing adult charges in connection to the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Makayla Bauman during a botched drug deal. The incident, which occurred on September 29, 2024, in Beech Grove, a suburb of Indianapolis, has resulted in a murder charge for Carter, who was 15 at the time of the shooting. Authorities have outlined the tragic events leading to Bauman’s death, including Carter’s involvement in the robbery gone wrong.
Details of the Incident
According to court records and a probable cause affidavit, Makayla Bauman and her younger brother drove to an apartment complex in Beech Grove to sell marijuana to Carter. When they arrived, Carter and another individual allegedly ran up to the car with guns drawn. One of them reportedly demanded, “Give me everything! Do you want to die?” As the brother tried to drive away in reverse, Carter allegedly opened fire, hitting Bauman.
“I think I just got shot,” Bauman said after being hit in the chest.
The brother attempted to drive Bauman to the hospital but soon realized she was “fading out.” He pulled over, and police arrived to find the brother trying to tend to her gunshot wound. Paramedics rushed her to the hospital, but she was pronounced dead.
Investigation and Arrest
The brother later told detectives that he and Carter were classmates at Beech Grove High School, though he was unsure about the identity of the second alleged gunman. Authorities later identified the other shooter as Carter’s brother. However, there has been no indication that Carter’s brother is facing criminal charges at this time.
Carter allegedly told detectives that he and his brother were the victims of a robbery and that one of the people in the car pulled a weapon. However, police found no evidence that Bauman or her brother were armed at any point.
Further investigations revealed that Carter had previously made statements about robbing someone for marijuana. According to a witness, Carter said he was going to “rob a white boy of some marijuana” before the shooting occurred.
Carter’s Arrest and Charges
Carter was arrested the day after the shooting. On Monday, prosecutors filed murder charges against Carter, who is now facing charges as an adult. Carter is charged with murder and robbery in connection to Bauman’s death.
Bauman’s Life and Legacy
Makayla Bauman was remembered by her family and loved ones for her vibrant and outgoing personality. Her obituary described her as someone who “lit up every room with her smile,” and emphasized her compassion, intelligence, and ability to bring joy to those around her. She was known for her love of shopping and spending time with friends.
The fatal shooting of Makayla Bauman has left her family and community devastated. As Emanuel Carter faces charges for her murder, the case highlights the dangers of street-level drug deals and the tragic consequences that can result from poor decisions. The investigation is ongoing, and the court will now determine the next steps in this heartbreaking case.
