News Summary

The Marion, Indiana community is in mourning following the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Julio Matamoros, who was killed during a confrontation over a vape sale. The incident occurred on April 22, 2025, leaving friends, family, and schoolmates in shock. Known as Lio, he was a senior baseball player with dreams of attending college. The suspected shooter has been arrested and the community is rallying to support Lio’s family during this challenging time.

Marion Community in Mourning After 17-Year-Old Julio Matamoros Fatally Shot Over Vape Sale

The tight-knit community of Marion, Indiana, is grappling with profound grief and heartache following the tragic death of 17-year-old Julio Matamoros, who was tragically killed in a shooting incident on Monday evening, April 22, 2025. The event occurred at approximately 6:50 p.m. in a parking lot located in the 1500 block of S. Western Avenue, leaving friends, family, and schoolmates in disbelief.

Known affectionately as Lio to those who loved him, Julio was a senior baseball player at Mississinewa High School. He had dreams of furthering his education at Indiana Wesleyan University and had recently been photographed on the baseball field just a week prior to this fateful day. Coaches and teammates remembered him as someone who brought joy to the game with his infectious smile and an outgoing personality that resonated with everyone around him.

A Meeting Gone Wrong

The tragic shooting reportedly stemmed from a meeting set up for Lio to sell vape cartridges to an acquaintance, 18-year-old Cordel Bice. Initial investigations suggest that what was supposed to be a simple transaction turned deadly when a confrontation escalated. Lio was shot in the chest, and even in those final moments, he managed to identify Bice as the shooter to law enforcement officers who arrived on the scene.

Witnesses reported seeing a white Pontiac speed away from the site shortly after the incident, which led the police to search for the vehicle. They soon discovered it parked near an apartment complex in the 500 block of East 3rd Street. This proactive response saw Bice arrested just a few hours later, linking him to the shooting and the getaway vehicle.

The Community’s Response

Initially charged with robbery and attempted murder, Bice’s charges will soon be elevated to murder as the legal proceedings move forward. He is currently being held without bond as the Marion community comes to terms with the loss of a bright young life. The authorities have also managed to recover the firearm suspected in the shooting, found in a trash can near 11th and Boots Street, based on tips received from the suspect.

In the wake of this tragedy, the Mississinewa Community School Corporation has stepped up, providing counseling services to both students and staff affected by the loss of Julio. This kind gesture reflects the community’s commitment to supporting each other in difficult times.

A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist the Matamoros family with medical expenses and funeral arrangements. Community members are coming together to ensure that Lio’s family feels the support they need during this impossible time, showcasing the love and solidarity that can shine through even the darkest of moments.

Julio’s mother, Corrine Rose, opened up about her son’s kind-hearted nature. She shared how much he cherished his family and friends, always steering clear of drama and negativity. This sentiment reflects how deeply he was loved by those who knew him.

As the Marion community continues to mourn the loss of a young talent cut down too soon, they are reminded of the fragility of life. Lio Matamoros will be remembered for his bright smile, love for the game of baseball, and the positive impact he had on everyone around him. His story is a somber reminder of the issues that our communities face, and hopefully, it will inspire change for the better in the days to come.

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