Gary man charged with murder after hitting, killing NW Indiana businessman

Atrailu Moore accused of crashing SUV into Tony Pendleton in Griffith parking lot

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:27pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked and damaged car windshield, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the violence and investigation surrounding a fatal vehicular attack.The aftermath of a violent vehicular attack exposes the fragility of public safety and the need for answers in a close-knit community.Gary Today

A 45-year-old Gary man has been charged with murder after police say he intentionally crashed his red Jeep Grand Cherokee into a local northwest Indiana business owner, Tony Pendleton, killing him in a Griffith parking lot on Monday morning. The suspect, Atrailu Moore, remained at the scene and was taken into custody by police.

Why it matters

This incident has shocked the close-knit Griffith community, where Pendleton was a well-known and respected local business owner. The alleged intentional nature of the attack has raised concerns about public safety and the potential motives behind the violent act.

The details

According to police, Moore was seen following Pendleton through the parking lot and briefly engaging with him before intentionally striking Pendleton with the SUV. Moore remained at the scene and was arrested. He is currently being held in the Lake County Jail on a murder charge.

  • The incident occurred just after 11:20 a.m. on Monday, April 8, 2026 in a parking lot near the 1100-block of East Ridge Road in Griffith, Indiana.

The players

Atrailu Moore

A 45-year-old man from Gary, Indiana who has been charged with murder for allegedly intentionally crashing his SUV into and killing a local northwest Indiana businessman.

Tony Pendleton

A well-known and respected local business owner in Griffith, Indiana who was killed when he was struck by an SUV driven by Atrailu Moore in a parking lot.

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What they’re saying

“Anyone with information on the fatal crash is asked to call Detective Jason Gary at 219-924-7503, extension 252. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call 219-922-3085.”

— Detective Jason Gary, Griffith Police Department

What’s next

Police are continuing to investigate the incident and are asking anyone with information to come forward. The suspect, Atrailu Moore, is being held in jail on a murder charge.

The takeaway

This tragic incident has shaken the Griffith community and raised serious concerns about public safety and the potential motives behind the alleged intentional attack on a local business owner. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to help provide answers and justice for the victim's family and the community.