Vigil remembers murder victim one year later

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — 38th Street and Hillside Avenue is the corner that played witness to the night Dewandale Crittenden was gunned down a year ago.

“At this spot is where my cousin lost his life, where he took his last breath,” said Latonnia Adams.

If only the streets could speak, his family might know who pulled the trigger.

“This is an example for all young people out here that want to live a street life or whatever kind of life that’s not right. When you’re dead and gone all you have is family. All you have is family. The streets don’t love you,” Adams said.

The family turned the streets into a place of promise — at least for one night — to make sure Dewandale’s story lives on.

“Even though you can’t bring the loved one back, you certainly want justice, to have the perpetrator placed in jail,” Rev. Charles Ellis said.

With candles shining a light on the darkness of violence and desperate voices raised in prayer, this community is making sure that message is heard.

“To the person who did this, the people who did this, understand it’s not over, understand it’s not over. You may be silent now but when you get to God you’re going to have to speak. You’re going to have to answer. Understand that,” Adams said.

And so that corner, one year later, witnesses another act of sacrifice; this time of love and of justice.

If you know anything about the murder of Dewandale Crittenden, or any unsolved murder victim, call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 262-TIPS.