Indiana man charged with reckless homicide after shooting unarmed intruder

Fort Wayne authorities charged 30-year-old Martell Pickens with reckless homicide after he shot and killed 25-year-old Khadolphee Taylor on May 7. Pickens reported being awakened at about 2:45 a.m. by a “suspicious” individual roaming the area and attempting to break into several vehicles. Home surveillance captured the suspect trying to force entry into Pickens’ residence, prompting Pickens to exit his house armed with a Glock.45 caliber handgun.

In the ensuing confrontation, Pickens warned the man to back up, but the suspect continued forward and was shot in the chest. Taylor was found bleeding, transported to a nearby hospital and later pronounced dead. Police later learned Taylor had been stopped earlier that night for driving while intoxicated with a suspended license, after which his car was towed and he was instructed to walk home.

Detectives concluded Pickens deliberately left his home and used lethal force in a manner they described as a reckless disregard for human life. Pickens is being held without bond and faces up to six years in prison and a fine if convicted.