Indianapolis, January 14, 2026
Juvenile crime is becoming a significant concern in Indianapolis, following the arrest of three teenagers, including two 14-year-olds, for burglary at a vape shop. The suspects led police on a high-speed chase after stealing over $2,500 worth of items. This incident highlights a troubling trend of youth involvement in crime, prompting community leaders to revamp summer programs aimed at engaging young people. As law enforcement addresses these issues, there is hope for positive change and development among Indianapolis youth.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Juvenile Crime in Indianapolis: A Rising Concern
Three teenagers, including two 14-year-olds, were arrested early Monday morning after breaking into a southside Indianapolis vape shop and leading police on a high-speed chase through residential streets.
According to court records, the suspects threw concrete blocks through the glass door of the vape shop on Madison Avenue, stealing over $2,500 worth of vape products. An Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officer spotted a stolen black Kia backed into the shop around early Monday morning. When officers approached, the car sped away, reaching speeds up to 80 mph while running without headlights through residential streets. Police arrested two 14-year-olds and a 19-year-old for their involvement in the break-in. Two other suspects escaped and remain at large.
Officers had been aware of multiple thefts involving vape shops and stolen cars over the past several months across the city. The shop owner expressed hope that this case would serve as a lesson for the teens to make better choices moving forward. Community leaders are working to revamp the city’s summer programs to better engage Indianapolis youth and prevent such incidents in the future.
Recent Incidents Involving Juvenile Offenders in Indianapolis
Indianapolis has witnessed a concerning series of incidents involving juvenile offenders. Just last year, a 17-year-old led police on a chase at high speeds while under the influence of drugs. The continuous cycle of crime among youth raises eyebrows within the community, prompting law enforcement and local organizations to reevaluate their approaches to crime prevention and youth engagement.
Community Response and Initiatives
In an effort to address juvenile crime in the city, community leaders are focusing on enhancing programs aimed at positively engaging youth. The importance of identifying specific times and days when youth may be more likely to engage in undesirable activities has been highlighted. The new director of the Office of Public Health and Safety has underscored the significance of offering constructive alternatives to crime and delinquency.
Background on Juvenile Crime in Indianapolis
Juvenile crime has been an ongoing issue in Indianapolis, with law enforcement and community organizations working tirelessly to tackle the root causes of delinquency. By implementing initiatives that promote youth development and engagement, there is hope for transforming negative behavior into positive outcomes, guiding young individuals towards brighter futures.
Addressing the Economic Impact
While incidents of juvenile crime can often lead to localized disruption and concern, the community’s response focuses on resilience and potential. By steering youth away from crime and into productive programs, Indianapolis can foster an environment where local entrepreneurs and businesses thrive. Initiatives that support youth engagement can feed into a larger narrative of economic growth and community stability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What were the charges against the three teenagers arrested in Indianapolis?
The three teenagers, including two 14-year-olds, were arrested for breaking into a southside Indianapolis vape shop and leading police on a high-speed chase through residential streets. They were charged with burglary and resisting law enforcement.
What is the value of the stolen vape products?
The stolen vape products were valued at over $2,500.
Were there any injuries during the high-speed chase?
There were no injuries reported during the high-speed chase.
What is being done to address juvenile crime in Indianapolis?
Community leaders are working to revamp the city’s summer programs to better engage Indianapolis youth and prevent such incidents in the future. The new director of the Office of Public Health and Safety emphasized the importance of targeting specific days and times when youth are more likely to engage in undesirable activities.
Have there been similar incidents involving juveniles in Indianapolis?
Yes, there have been several incidents involving juvenile offenders in Indianapolis in recent months, including a 14-year-old leading police on a high-speed chase and a 17-year-old fleeing police at 80 miles per hour while under the influence of PCP, seriously injuring two people.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Southside Indianapolis, Indiana |
| Suspects | Three teenagers, including two 14-year-olds and a 19-year-old |
| Crime | Burglary of a vape shop and leading police on a high-speed chase |
| Stolen Items | Over $2,500 worth of vape products |
| Police Response | High-speed chase reaching speeds up to 80 mph; two suspects arrested; two others escaped and remain at large |
| Community Response | Efforts to revamp summer programs to engage youth and prevent juvenile crime |
Now Happening on X
- @WTHRcom (January 11, 2026, 12:32 AM) A man was killed in a shooting on Indy’s northwest side on January 10; IMPD indicates it was not a random incident. View on X
- @JesseWellsNews (January 12, 2026, 8:13 PM) Witnesses quickly helped IMPD identify a murder suspect after a deadly shooting on Indy’s west side, leading to an arrest. View on X
- @IMPDnews (January 12, 2026, 2:26 PM) IMPD arrested 30-year-old Davante Payne for an armed robbery and assault on the east side of Indianapolis stemming from an argument over leftovers on January 9. View on X
- @FOX59 (January 12, 2026, 9:22 PM) A 30-year-old was arrested following an argument over a takeout meal that escalated to shots fired on the near east side of Indianapolis. View on X
- @JHerrickOnAir (January 13, 2026, 5:10 PM) Discussion on a large police presence in Indianapolis this morning, upcoming snow in the area, and other local news updates. View on X
- @CBS4Indy (January 9, 2026, 4:00 PM) IMPD and north side neighbors are advocating for safer streets amid ongoing public safety concerns. View on X
- @indystar (January 10, 2026, 3:00 PM) Summary of Indiana headlines including Senator Todd Young’s vote on war powers, Ritz-Carlton development plans, and an FBI-thwarted ISIS-inspired plot. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Indianapolis Faces Rising Gun Violence Amid Recent Shootings
IU Indianapolis Jaguars Prepare for Challenge Against Antelopes
UConn Remains Unbeaten at the Top of Women’s Basketball Rankings
Tragic Incident in Indianapolis: Murder and Family Violence
Performance Racing Industry Show Highlights Motorsports Innovation
Purdue Boilermakers Set to Battle Auburn Tigers at Indy Classic
Community Unites After Tragedy at Josephine’s Boutique
Indiana State Police Investigate I-465 Road Rage Shooting
Man Charged with Arson and Theft Linked to Telecom Infrastructure
Jaguars Edge Eagles in Thrilling Victory
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
