An Indiana jury convicted a man who, at 16, murdered three people while demonstrating how to convert a Glock into a machine gun.
Caden Smith, now 19, was found guilty on Friday of three counts of murder, robbery, possession of a machine gun, and possession of methamphetamine, among other charges, according to the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office.
Indy Star reports that Smith killed Abdulla Mubarak, 17, Joseph Thomas, 18, and Michael James, 22, on October 12, 2021.
Police discovered the victims dead from gunshot wounds, left in a grassy path near the 4400 block of South Meridian Street in Indianapolis. Investigators found several spent shell casings at the scene.
“The officers collected over fifty 9mm fired cartridge casings at the scene and unfired 9mm bullets,” Indianapolis Metropolitan police said, according to court documents.
The killings sparked fears of a serial killer in the city, which police quickly dismissed.
Police arrested Smith weeks later after piecing together evidence from witness accounts and phone records.
Text messages indicated that Smith lured the victims to the field over two nights to demonstrate how a Glock switch, which converts the firearm into a machine gun, works. Prosecutors said Smith used the demonstration as an opportunity to murder the men and rob them. Detectives later the murder weapon at Smith’s home.
Fox 59 reports that following the trial, which lasted five days, the jury convicted Smith of
- Murder
- Felony murder
- Robbery resulting in a serious bodily injury
- Dangerous possession of a machine gun
- Dangerous possession of a firearm
- Possession of methamphetamine
- Possession of marijuana
- Resisting law enforcement
“It was a long and challenging road for these families, but thanks to the steadfast commitment of the investigators, deputy prosecutors, and the multitude of agencies, justice has been secured for Abdullah, Joseph, Michael, and their families,” Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears said in a news release.
“Abdullah’s, Joseph’s, and Michael’s families will never be able to see them grow up and live their lives. This verdict solidifies that Smith will likely spend the rest of his life in prison for the crimes he committed.”
A sentencing date hasn’t been scheduled yet. Check back for updates.
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[Feature Photo: Caden Smith/Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department]
