The Evansville Police Department (EPD) has made multiple arrests in connection with a burglary that turned deadly earlier this month in the 3000 block of Sweetser Avenue. The incident, which occurred on May 13, 2025, has led to murder and burglary charges against two individuals, with a third suspect still being sought.
Incident Overview
On May 13th, at approximately [exact time redacted], EPD officers responded to an emergency call reporting a burglary in progress. The caller stated that three individuals had broken into their home and that their son had shot one of the intruders in self-defense. The caller, who was not present during the break-in, informed dispatch that the individual who had been shot appeared to be deceased and that the remaining two suspects fled the scene.
Upon arrival, officers located the deceased subject inside the residence. The home was cleared to ensure the safety of all individuals, and the scene was secured for further investigation.
The resident who fired the weapon fully cooperated with law enforcement, stating in a subsequent interview that he was inside the home when he heard a loud noise. Upon investigating, he observed three armed individuals breaking in—all of whom were described as Black males wearing all black, masks, and rubber gloves. Fearing for his life, the resident used his legally owned handgun to defend himself, striking one of the intruders. The two other suspects fled the home on foot.
Arrests and Charges
UPDATE (May 28, 2025):
- Klifton C. Carter, 22, has been arrested and is currently booked into the Vanderburgh County Confinement Center. Carter is facing charges of Murder and Burglary under Indiana’s Felony Murder Rule, which allows individuals to be charged with murder if a death occurs during the commission of certain felonies, including burglary.
- Jaylen M. Drone, 21, is also in custody and has been booked into the Vanderburgh County Confinement Center. He faces identical charges: Murder and Burglary, also under the Felony Murder Rule. Investigators have identified Drone as one of the three intruders involved in the Sweetser Avenue break-in.
A warrant has been issued for the third surviving suspect, whose name is being withheld pending arrest. EPD is actively seeking this individual and encourages anyone with information to come forward.
Related Narcotics Investigation
During the broader investigation, officers obtained and executed search warrants on multiple homes and vehicles linked to the suspects. These searches uncovered evidence of narcotics trafficking, leading to the arrest of Cameron and Christian Thomas. Both individuals have been charged with multiple narcotics-related offenses and are currently in custody.
At this time, authorities believe the burglary was not a random act but may have been connected to illegal drug activity. However, there is no known threat to the general public related to this case.
Public Assistance Requested
The Evansville Police Department continues to pursue leads in this investigation and urges anyone with information about the third suspect or related activity to contact the following: