12-Year-Old Boy and His Older Brother Fatally Shot Hours Before Planned Family Trip

July 14, 2025 | Indianapolis, IN

A planned day of laughter and family memories turned into a devastating tragedy over the weekend, as a 12-year-old boy and his 24-year-old brother were fatally shot in Indianapolis just hours before their mother was set to take them on a trip to King’s Island amusement park.

The victims, identified by family as Izzy Offett, 12, and Wayland Offett, 24, were found inside a car near West 38th Street around 4 a.m. on Saturday, July 12, both suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

Emergency crews responded quickly, and both brothers were transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Despite efforts by medical staff, neither survived.

Now, the mother who brought them into the world — Natysha Offett — is facing the unimaginable grief of planning two funerals on the same day she was supposed to take her sons on a summer family outing.

“She was up early, ready for a day at the park,” said a family friend. “Instead of loading the car, she got the worst call of her life.”

A Shattered Morning

According to family members, Natysha woke up early on Saturday morning excited to surprise her children with a day at King’s Island. But when she went to wake Izzy, he wasn’t in his bed.

She called his phone. No answer. She checked his location — it showed him “out west,” a vague and worrying update. Moments later, she would learn the devastating truth.

Both of her sons had been found shot inside a car, reportedly parked near a gas station or along the roadside. Police have not released many details about the crime scene, but confirmed that a double shooting occurred in the early morning hours and that both victims later died of their injuries.

Victims Remembered: A Young Boy With Promise, and a Protective Big Brother

Izzy Offett, just 12 years old, was described by family and friends as a joyful, energetic boy who loved basketball, video games, and spending time with his loved ones.

“He was a bright kid,” said one teacher. “Always smiling, always curious. This is devastating.”

His older brother, Wayland, was described as his protector — someone who took care of his younger siblings and always made sure they were safe.

“He stepped up when he needed to,” said a family member. “He wasn’t perfect, but he loved his little brother fiercely.”

The two were incredibly close, often seen together at family events and neighborhood gatherings.

Community Outrage and Ongoing Investigation

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department has not yet released information about a suspect or possible motive. Detectives are asking anyone with surveillance footage, tips, or eyewitness information to come forward. The shooting is still under active investigation.

“This is an ongoing case,” said a department spokesperson. “We are working around the clock to piece together what happened and who is responsible.”

The killings have left the local community in shock and mourning. Community leaders and youth advocates say this latest act of violence highlights the ongoing issue of gun-related deaths among youth in Indianapolis, where families are often left without answers — and without justice.

“We’ve lost a 12-year-old child. That alone should stop this city in its tracks,” said a local pastor. “This cannot be normalized. This must stop.”

A Grieving Mother, A City in Mourning

For Natysha Offett, the grief is still too raw to speak publicly. Family and friends say she’s barely able to function, overwhelmed with sorrow as she prepares to bury both of her sons — a heartbreak no parent should ever have to endure.

“She brought them into the world. Now she has to say goodbye to them both,” said one close relative. “She’s completely broken.”

Memorial arrangements for Izzy and Wayland are underway. A candlelight vigil is also being planned in their honor, with community members coming together to mourn, remember, and demand justice.

 In Loving Memory:

Izzy Offett (12) and Wayland Offett (24)
Two lives lost. Two futures stolen. One family shattered.
May their names never be forgotten, and may justice find those responsible.