INDIANAPOLIS — In a heartbreaking turn of events that has shaken the southwest side of Indianapolis, Rob Vidito, a courageous resident, lost his life in a brutal and senseless act of violence while trying to protect what was his.
On the morning of Thursday, August 14, around 11:10 a.m., Vidito confronted two individuals—a man and a woman—who were attempting to steal his vehicle near Denison Street and West Troy Avenue, close to South Lynhurst Drive. In a desperate bid to stop the theft, Vidito climbed onto the hood of his car, hoping his presence would deter the criminals.
But instead of backing down, the suspects made a chilling decision: they accelerated, running over Vidito with the very car he was trying to protect. As if that weren’t enough, they reportedly exited the vehicle and physically assaulted him before fleeing the scene.
When officers from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) arrived, they found Vidito critically injured. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, but despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries.
The female suspect was apprehended shortly after the incident. The male suspect initially escaped, prompting an intensive manhunt. Thanks to the relentless efforts of the IMPD Violence Reduction Team, he was later captured and taken into custody.
“This was not just a hit-and-run—it was an intentional and senseless act that took a man’s life,” an IMPD spokesperson stated, echoing the community’s outrage and sorrow.
Rob Vidito’s death has left a deep scar on his family, friends, and neighbors. Known for his bravery and selflessness, his final act was one of pure courage—standing up against wrongdoing, even at the cost of his life.
Authorities continue to investigate the case and urge anyone with information to come forward. As the city mourns, Rob Vidito’s legacy lives on as a symbol of valor in the face of cruelty.