Donnie Abney convicted of murder in 2025 Indianapolis shooting

Donnie Abney lost his freedom of choice in a central Indiana courtroom after a jury returned a guilty verdict on October 28. The Indianapolis man was convicted of murder and unlawful carrying of a handgun. The charges stem from the April 17, 2025, death of Forrest Grant on the city's near southwest side.

Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears announced the verdict following three days of trial. Jurors spent three hours in deliberation before reaching their decision. The conviction closes a legal process that began when officers found Grant with a gunshot wound outside a tobacco store.

Police located Grant near a bus stop in the afternoon. Witnesses testified that Abney and his father were arguing with Grant outside the establishment. During the dispute, Abney drew a handgun multiple times. He fired a single shot that struck Grant in the torso, according to the prosecution.

Evidence from nearby businesses and surveillance cameras supported the witness accounts. Prosecutors noted that Abney contacted acquaintances while on the run. In those communications, he admitted to shooting Grant. Mears described the case as a tragic example of a young person using a gun in a brief dispute.

The court will now decide if Abney receives a sentencing enhancement for using a firearm. The judge will also determine the length of his prison sentence. Abney's sentencing hearing is set for December 3 at 10:30 a.m.