Man Convicted of Killing Ex-Girlfriend, Wounding Boyfriend Near Menards Parking Lot

Dejuan McIntyre found guilty of murder, attempted murder, and gun enhancements in 2023 attack

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:58pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single spent bullet casing against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic that conceptually represents the violent crime scene evidence without depicting any literal violence.The physical evidence from a deadly domestic violence attack exposes the tragic aftermath of an abusive relationship.Gary Today

A jury convicted a 45-year-old Gary man, Dejuan McIntyre, of killing his ex-girlfriend Ashley Bitikofer and wounding her new boyfriend Mike Lehman in a shooting near a Merrillville Menards parking lot in June 2023. McIntyre was found guilty of murder, attempted murder, and two gun enhancements after the jury deliberated for a few hours. His sentencing is scheduled for May 6.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the ongoing challenges in addressing intimate partner crimes, especially when a relationship has a history of toxicity and abuse. The attack also raises concerns about gun violence in public spaces and the need for stronger measures to protect victims of stalking and harassment.

The details

According to testimony, on the night of June 8, 2023, Bitikofer and Lehman, who worked together at Indiana Sugars in Gary, were at a Super 8 motel when McIntyre allegedly confronted them. This led to a car chase, during which McIntyre is accused of ambushing and shooting the couple, causing their car to crash into the Menards parking lot fence. Bitikofer was found dead at the scene, while Lehman was airlifted to a Chicago hospital with gunshot wounds. Various evidence, including witness accounts and digital records, linked McIntyre to the crime.

  • On June 8, 2023, police were called to the Menards parking lot in Merrillville, Indiana at 11:13 p.m. after the couple's car crashed into the fence.
  • The shooting and attack occurred earlier that same night, after McIntyre allegedly confronted Bitikofer and Lehman at a Super 8 motel.

The players

Dejuan McIntyre

A 45-year-old man from Gary, Indiana who was convicted of killing his ex-girlfriend Ashley Bitikofer and wounding her new boyfriend Mike Lehman.

Ashley Bitikofer

A woman from Gary, Indiana who was killed in the shooting near the Menards parking lot. She had a previous relationship with Dejuan McIntyre that was described as 'tumultuous'.

Mike Lehman

The new boyfriend of Ashley Bitikofer who was wounded in the shooting near the Menards parking lot. He later testified about the attack.

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What they’re saying

“'Unfortunately, in circumstances like this, there is no justice. Her life ended that day.'”

— Jennifer Hawkins, Ashley Bitikofer's sister

“'There was justice to an extent. He can't hurt anybody else.'”

— Jennifer Hawkins, Ashley Bitikofer's sister

“'The first shot wasn't good enough,' she said, calling her daughter's death 'overkill.'”

— Debra Bitikofer, Ashley Bitikofer's mother

What’s next

McIntyre's sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 6, where the judge will determine his punishment for the murder, attempted murder, and gun enhancement charges.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the ongoing need for greater awareness, prevention, and support services to address domestic violence, stalking, and the risks posed by abusive ex-partners. It also underscores the importance of thorough investigations, strong evidence, and effective prosecution to hold perpetrators accountable and protect vulnerable victims.