Suspect Arrested in Murder of Pro-Life Sidewalk Counselor With Baby On the Way

National   |   Steven Ertelt   |   Apr 9, 2014   |   10:29AM   |  

A suspect has been arrested in the case of a shooting death of a pro-life sidewalk counselor in Indianapolis, Indiana whose wife is expected to give birth soon.

Nathan Trapuzzano was a young 24-year-old man who served as a sidewalk counselor at a local abortion clinic in Indiana and had a baby on the way. Tragically, he was murdered in a shooting while out walking his neighborhood.

trapuzzanoAccording to WTHR, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) homicide detectives have made an arrest in the fatal shooting and say robbery was a motive in the case.

The pro-life community has rallied around Nathan’s family and has raised more than $158,000 for his wife and unborn baby. Funds donated here will cover baby expenses for Trapuzzano’s wife Jennifer, who is eight months pregnant with their daughter Cecilia, as well as the young man’s funeral.

From the report:

Marion County Prosecutor Terry Curry announced charges against 16-year-old Simeon Adams on Tuesday. Adams is charged with Murder, Attempt Robbery (A Felony), and Carrying a Handgun without a License (A Misdemeanor).

Trapuzzano was out for a morning walk a week ago on W. 16th St. when he was attacked and killed.

“There was surveillance video from a nearby business relating to this particular crime, and in the video, one of the suspects had relatively distinctive clothing. It was also set forth and statements had been given by witnesses implicating Mr. Adams in the shooting,” said Curry.

Speaking to the press Tuesday, IMPD Chief Rick Hite said Adams was known to police from three prior incidents. Chief Hite also said that police know who the second suspect is, but did not name that person.

“There were several tips from the public. We had contained the subject for some time. We knew where he was. Now we’re seeing through a tally of the investigation, we have charges against this young man and hopefully we’ll get more information to make sure he goes to jail for a very long time,” said the chief.

Adams is currently being held at the Juvenile Center. He is recovering from a gunshot wound he received during an incident on April 1 on W. 35th Street.

In response to the arrest, Jennifer Trapuzzano, Nathan’s wife, wrote on Facebook:

“Today has been extra rough. It’s been one week and I still can’t comprehend that this is all real.

“The police have reported the suspect of my husband’s murder was only 16. Oh how my already wounded heart aches to hear this. Nate always said one of the greatest crimes in the world today is how many babies grow up without their father.

“I don’t know this man’s circumstances but it hurts to hear that such a young man could turn to such violence. Please pray for his conversion.”

“I am saddened to report that a young man who served as a sidewalk counselor at one of Indianapolis’ abortion clinics was killed while walking near his home on Tuesday morning,” said Cathie Humbarger of Allen County Right to Life. “His wife is due to deliver their first baby next month.”

A donation web site has been set up to help Trapuzzano’s family. So far it has raised more than $158,000.

“As with many tragedies, this seems so senseless and yet the outpouring of love and support reminds us that there is so much good in this world. Nate would not want us to become angry, but rather focus on the good and what is yet to come,” his family said in a statement released April 2.

“Nate had an unbelievable, strong faith in God, and we are finding some comfort knowing he is now in the Lord’s loving embrace.”