Man Found Shot Dead in Car in Fort Wayne

Khiry Wilkins, 31, identified as victim in first homicide of 2026

Jan. 27, 2026 at 10:07pm

Khiry Van Wilkins, a 31-year-old man from Indianapolis, has been identified as the victim of a homicide in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was found unresponsive in his car near the intersection of Pemberton Drive and East State Boulevard on Saturday. Police responded to a reported crash and discovered Wilkins, who was later pronounced dead at the hospital from a gunshot wound.

Why it matters

This incident marks the first homicide recorded in both Fort Wayne and Allen County for the year 2026, which could prompt increased scrutiny of public safety measures and resource allocation in the area. The collaborative investigation involving multiple agencies suggests a commitment to a thorough and coordinated response.

The details

Police responded to a reported crash and discovered Wilkins. He was transported to Parkview Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. The Allen County Coroner's Office determined that Wilkins died from a gunshot wound. The death has been officially ruled a homicide, and investigations are being conducted by the Fort Wayne Police Department, in collaboration with the Allen County Prosecutor's Office and the Allen County Coroner's Office.

  • On Saturday, Wilkins was found unresponsive in his car near the intersection of Pemberton Drive and East State Boulevard.
  • Wilkins was pronounced dead at Parkview Regional Medical Center.

The players

Khiry Van Wilkins

A 31-year-old man from Indianapolis who was the victim of the homicide.

Fort Wayne Police Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the homicide, in collaboration with the Allen County Prosecutor's Office and the Allen County Coroner's Office.

Allen County Prosecutor's Office

Collaborating with the Fort Wayne Police Department and the Allen County Coroner's Office on the investigation.

Allen County Coroner's Office

Determined that Wilkins died from a gunshot wound and officially ruled the death a homicide.

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What’s next

The Fort Wayne Police Department is likely to pursue leads related to the shooting, and the Allen County Prosecutor's Office will work closely with law enforcement as the investigation progresses.

The takeaway

This homicide investigation highlights the importance of public safety and the need for a coordinated response from law enforcement agencies to address isolated incidents of violence in the community.