Investigators spent eight years piecing together witness accounts before finally filing charges in a killing that, according to court documents, cost just $1,500 to arrange.
The Murder
David Wise was found dead from a gunshot wound to the neck near the Rails to Trails walkway in Marion, Indiana, around 3:30 p.m. on January 3, 2015.
The Charges
The Grant County Prosecutor charged Darzell Jones, 40, and Terrence Fetz, 32, with murder and conspiracy to commit murder in connection with Wise's death. Jones has been arrested and is in custody; Fetz, already incarcerated at the Indiana Department of Correction's Westville facility on unrelated matters, has a warrant out for his arrest on these charges.
What Investigators Allege
According to court documents built on years of witness interviews, Fetz allegedly paid Jones $1,500 to kill Wise, motivated by a belief that Wise had set fire to Fetz's brother's car. One witness told investigators that Jones visited his home the night of the killing, disclosed the arrangement, and later returned to say he had killed Wise. That witness said Fetz initially doubted the news and insisted on seeing the body before paying Jones, and that Jones subsequently drove Fetz to the scene. A separate witness, in a later interview, said Jones had told him he could make someone "disappear" for a fee, similar to what happened to Wise. Both witnesses passed polygraph examinations, according to court filings.
Where the Case Stands
Investigators have said the full case file includes additional details beyond what has been made public regarding Jones and Fetz specifically. As of the available information, neither man had gone to trial.
FAQ
What are Jones and Fetz charged with?
Murder and conspiracy to commit murder in connection with David Wise's 2015 killing.
What was the alleged motive?
Prosecutors allege Fetz wanted Wise killed over a belief that Wise had set fire to his brother's car, and paid Jones $1,500 to carry it out.
Has either man been convicted?
As of the available information, no -- both cases were pending. Please verify current status before publishing.