Man convicted of murder in 2021 homicide of woman shot, set on fire

INDIANAPOLIS — This week, an Indianapolis man was convicted of murder stemming from a July 2021 homicide in which a woman was shot and then set on fire on the west side of the city.

On July 9, 2021, IMPD Southwest District officers were dispatched to the 1100 block of Medford Avenue on a report of a person shot. This is near West 10th Street and North Tibbs Avenue.

When officers arrived, they located an adult female who sustained injuries consistent with a gunshot wound(s) and trauma. IEMS arrived and transported the woman to an area hospital listed in critical condition.

On July 19, 2021, the woman identified as 44-year-old Laura Gentry died from the injuries sustained.

On July 9, 2022, Dwayne A. Wright was charged with murder and carrying a handgun with a prior felony conviction.

Wright was sentenced to 60 years in prison in March 2024.

“Ms. Gentry showed incredible courage in her final moments that ultimately led us on a path towards this conviction,” Prosecutor Ryan Mears said. “The hard work and dedication from law enforcement and the community’s willingness to come forward throughout this investigation, helped hold the defendant accountable for his heinous actions.”

IMPD is continuing to ask anyone with information about this incident to call the IMPD Homicide Office at 317-327-3475 or Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-TIPS.