Julio Matamoros, 17, Tragically Killed in Marion Shooting, Suspect Cordel Bice, 18, Arrested in Connection with Robbery-related Incident
On the evening of April 21, 2025, the tight-knit community of Marion, Indiana, was rocked by a devastating incident that claimed the life of 17-year-old Julio Matamoros. A senior at Mississinewa High School, Julio was a beloved student and a standout member of the school’s baseball team. His untimely death, resulting from a gunshot wound, has left the community in mourning, as the details surrounding the shooting begin to unravel. Authorities have arrested 18-year-old Cordel Bice, who is being held in connection with the incident, though formal charges have yet to be filed.
Timeline of Events:
The incident occurred on the 1500 block of South Western Avenue, a residential area that, according to the Marion Police Department, had previously been a quiet neighborhood with few criminal incidents. Officers received reports of a shooting at approximately 7:30 PM on Monday, April 21. When they arrived at the scene, they found Julio Matamoros lying on the ground, gravely injured from a gunshot wound. Immediate medical assistance was rendered, and Matamoros was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite the efforts of emergency responders and doctors, Matamoros succumbed to his injuries, passing away before he could receive any further medical intervention.
Before being transported to the hospital, Julio was able to provide police with a key piece of information: he identified his shooter as someone named “Cordel.” This vital lead would later help investigators trace the suspect, later identified as Cordel Bice, a young man who was linked to the crime by a series of clues found at the scene.
The Role of Cordel Bice:
Cordel Bice, 18, was quickly identified as the primary suspect in the shooting. Bice’s involvement in the case was first brought to light when a vehicle seen fleeing the scene of the crime was linked to him. The vehicle’s make and model matched those described by witnesses, and investigators were able to track down the owner of the car. Upon speaking with Bice, the Marion Police Department discovered that he had allegedly gone to Matamoros with the intent of purchasing vape cartridges, a transaction that, according to authorities, escalated into violence.
Although the details of the encounter are still under investigation, police believe that the attempted purchase of the vape cartridges became the focal point of a heated exchange between Bice and Matamoros. It is unclear whether Bice was attempting to steal the cartridges or if there was a dispute over the price or availability, but at some point during the confrontation, Bice reportedly drew a firearm and shot Matamoros. Investigators have not yet confirmed whether Bice and Matamoros knew each other prior to the incident.
The Investigation:
Following the shooting, Marion Police were quick to respond, launching a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic event. Witnesses to the crime were interviewed, and investigators combed through the scene for any evidence that might shed light on the motives and actions that led to the shooting.
Despite the initial identification of Cordel Bice as the shooter, Marion Police have indicated that the investigation is ongoing. They are asking anyone with information regarding the case to come forward and assist with the inquiry. The police have emphasized that no detail is too small and that public cooperation is vital in piecing together the events that led to Matamoros’s death.
Charges and Legal Proceedings:
At the time of the report, Bice had been taken into custody and was being held at the Grant County Jail. He faces preliminary charges of attempted murder and robbery resulting in serious bodily injury. However, as of now, no formal charges have been filed against him, and the legal proceedings are still in the early stages.
Bice’s arrest comes after he was questioned by investigators, and authorities have confirmed that he is being held without bail. Online records for the Grant County Jail, however, do not currently list Bice as being in custody, which may indicate that he is awaiting formal charges or is still in the process of being booked. It is expected that further details will be released as the investigation moves forward and the legal process unfolds.
The Community’s Response:
The death of Julio Matamoros has had a profound impact on the Mississinewa community, particularly at Mississinewa High School, where Julio was a senior. Julio had been an active member of the school’s baseball team, and his teammates and coaches were deeply saddened by the news of his death. Friends and family described Julio as a bright, energetic young man who had a promising future ahead of him. The news of his passing has left many in shock, struggling to come to terms with the senseless violence that took his life.
The Mississinewa Community School Corporation issued a statement expressing their condolences and offering support to students and staff who are grieving. “The loss of a young life, especially one so full of promise, is a tragedy that affects everyone in our school community. Our thoughts are with Julio’s family, friends, and classmates during this difficult time,” said the statement.
In response to the trauma caused by the incident, counseling services have been made available to students and faculty members at the school. Grief counselors and mental health professionals are on hand to provide support to those who are struggling with the emotional weight of the tragedy.
Public Awareness and Calls for Action:
As news of the shooting spreads, community leaders have called for increased awareness surrounding the dangers of firearms and the potential for violence in seemingly mundane interactions. The tragedy has sparked a conversation about the underlying causes of violence among young people and the role of gun control in preventing similar incidents.
Local organizations and advocates have rallied around the Matamoros family, urging the community to unite in the fight against violence and to ensure that justice is served. They have called for increased support for at-risk youth and have emphasized the need for stronger measures to address the root causes of violence in the area.
Conclusion:
The tragic loss of Julio Matamoros has left an indelible mark on the community of Marion, Indiana. As the investigation into the shooting continues, authorities are working tirelessly to piece together the events that led to his death. The arrest of Cordel Bice brings some degree of closure to the case, but the emotional toll of the incident will be felt for years to come.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Mississinewa community has come together to support one another, offering comfort to those who knew Julio and working to ensure that such a devastating act of violence does not happen again. While the investigation continues, the focus remains on honoring the memory of Julio Matamoros and seeking justice for his untimely death. The coming days and weeks will be crucial in determining the legal outcome of this case and in helping the community heal from the deep wounds caused by this senseless act of violence.
