Raymond Childs. Autographed Letter, Signed. Handwritten, Commercial #10 (4.125 × 9.5 envelope). Indianapolis, IN. April 25, 2025. Content unknown. SEALED.

The Adams Street Massacre: The Tragedy of Raymond Ronald Lee Childs III

In the early hours of January 24, 2021, the city of Indianapolis was shaken by a horrific act of violence that claimed the lives of six individuals, including an unborn child. The perpetrator, 17-year-old Raymond Ronald Lee Childs III, committed one of the most devastating familial mass shootings in recent history. This narrative delves into the background, events, and aftermath of this tragic incident.​

Basic Information

Raymond Ronald Lee Childs III was born in 2003 in Indianapolis, Indiana. As of April 2025, he is incarcerated at the Indiana Department of Correction, serving a 360-year sentence for multiple counts of murder and attempted murder. His criminal record is marked by the January 2021 mass shooting that resulted in the deaths of six individuals, including his immediate family members and his brother's pregnant girlfriend.​

Background

Childs was raised in a family that valued community and entrepreneurship. His father, Raymond Childs Jr., and stepmother, Kezzie Childs, were known for their involvement in local initiatives and for fostering a supportive environment for their children. Despite this, Childs III exhibited behavioral issues during his teenage years, leading to tensions within the household. He was enrolled in a local high school but had a history of disciplinary problems. Details about his employment history are scarce, but he was known to associate with peers who had a negative influence on his behavior.​

Criminal Activity

On the night of January 23, 2021, Childs left his home without permission to visit his girlfriend. Upon returning in the early hours of January 24, he was confronted by his father about his absence. An argument ensued, during which his father indicated that there would be consequences for his actions. In a fit of rage, Childs retrieved a firearm and began a systematic shooting spree within the family home located on Adams Street. He first shot his brother, Elijah Childs, 18, followed by his parents, Raymond Jr. and Kezzie, both 42. He then killed his 13-year-old sister, Rita, and his brother's 19-year-old pregnant girlfriend, Kiara Hawkins. Hawkins' unborn child also died as a result of the shooting. A 15-year-old sibling was shot but managed to escape and survive the attack.

Legal Proceedings

Childs was apprehended on January 25, 2021, at a relative's home in Indianapolis. He was charged with six counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, and one count of carrying a handgun without a license. Due to the severity of the crimes, he was tried as an adult. The initial trial in July 2024 ended in a mistrial after a witness confronted Childs in front of the jury. A retrial commenced in October 2024, and after a five-day proceeding, the jury found Childs guilty on all charges. In January 2025, he was sentenced to 360 years in prison, reflecting the gravity of his actions

Impact on Victims and Society

The victims of this tragedy were:​

• Raymond Childs Jr., 42​

• Kezzie Childs, 42​

• Elijah Childs, 18​

• Rita Childs, 13​

• Kiara Hawkins, 19

• Hawkins' unborn child​

The surviving 15-year-old sibling suffered physical injuries and psychological trauma. Deeply affected, the community intensified discussions on youth violence, mental health, and gun control. Media coverage was extensive, and the case prompted local authorities to reevaluate policies related to juvenile offenders and family counseling services.​

Current Status

Raymond Childs III is currently serving his sentence in the Indiana Department of Correction. There have been no reports of rehabilitation efforts or parole eligibility due to the nature of his crimes. Given the life sentence, he poses no future threat to society.​

Conclusion

The case of Raymond Ronald Lee Childs III serves as a grim reminder of the potential consequences of unresolved familial conflicts and the importance of early intervention in behavioral issues among youth. It underscores the need for accessible mental health resources and effective communication within families to prevent such tragedies.​

Additional Note

Given the notoriety of this case, any autographed items associated with Raymond Childs III would be considered rare. However, due to the nature of his crimes, such items may be controversial and are generally discouraged from being traded or displayed.

• VIDEO: Teen Executed His Family Over Sleepover with Girlfriend | https://youtu.be/Fd9eRvh7CF4

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Archiving Protocol:

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• White Backing Board – Acid Free

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