A LaPorte man already in jail on murder charges is now charged in connection with another shooting death that took place in Michigan City back in 2021.

It was just after 8:30 p.m. on Jan. 23, 2021, when LaPorte County Sheriff’s Deputies were called on the report of a woman suffering from multiple gunshot wounds at Crown Food Mart on East Michigan Blvd. in Michigan City. Officers and found the woman suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

The LaPorte County Regional Dispatch Center received a second 911 call moments after receiving the call at the Crown Food Mart. This caller reported a man was suffering from a gunshot wound in the 100 block of Edward Street. Other responding officers quickly arrived and found Demetrius Howell, 27, dead from a gunshot wound.

The Officers secured both crime scenes at Crown Food Mart and in the 100 block of Edward Street. The Investigative Division was called in and took over both crime scenes. It was learned that both victims were together in the 100 block of Edward Street when the shooting took place.

Determined to solve the crime, detectives worked this case tirelessly for two years following up on leads, conducting interviews and collecting additional evidence.

An arrest warrant was issued charging Lamar Friend with one Count of Murder and one Count of Attempted Murder. Bond was set at $1,000,000.00 (One Million) dollars, cash only. The arrest warrant was served upon Friend at the LaPorte County Jail where he is currently being held.