INDIANAPOLIS — A quiet early morning on the city’s east side turned tragic when a mother was found with severe trauma injuries and later died at the hospital. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department responded to an apartment in the 7500 block of South Village Way shortly before 2 a.m. Monday after receiving a disturbance call. What officers discovered has left the community shaken and grieving.
Police say the call for help came after a young child ran from the apartment and alerted a neighbor, telling them that someone had killed their mother. The terrifying moment sent neighbors into shock and prompted a fast response from first responders. When officers arrived, they found the woman suffering from serious trauma. Although she was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, her injuries proved fatal, and she was later pronounced dead.
Officials have identified the victim as 36-year-old Ashley Yunya Yarrell. The Marion County Coroner’s Office confirmed her identity Monday afternoon. Yarrell’s death has been ruled a homicide, adding more urgency to the investigation as detectives work to uncover what led up to the deadly attack. Police have not released information about a possible suspect or motive, and no arrests have been announced.
For residents in the area, the loss is both tragic and haunting. Many say they were disturbed to learn that a child had to witness the aftermath and seek help on their own. The image of a young boy or girl running for safety, trying to explain the unthinkable, has left neighbors and parents deeply troubled. The situation also raises questions about the moments leading up to the attack and whether any signs of danger went unnoticed or unheard.
Detectives spent much of Monday gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working to retrace events inside the apartment. Investigators have not shared details about whether any other children were present or if anyone else might have been injured or involved. Police are asking the public for any information that could help solve the case and bring justice for Yarrell and her family.
As the investigation continues, the community is left with heavy hearts and a deep sense of sorrow. Loved ones are mourning a mother whose life was taken too soon, and many are thinking about the child who is now without their parent. As police search for answers, residents are hoping for swift justice and healing after a tragic loss that has left the neighborhood stunned.
