Robert D. Golliday, Indianapolis, Obituary, Death: Young man killed after late-night confrontation tied to alleged flirtatious messages
What started as a tense personal confrontation on the northeast side of Indianapolis ended in heartbreak for a young family now mourning the loss of 22-year-old Robert D. Golliday.
Police said the shooting happened around 7:30 p.m. on April 15 near the 5900 block of Radnor Road. Officers rushed to the scene after reports of gunfire and found Golliday suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was taken to the hospital in critical condition, but he later died from his injuries.
Investigators later arrested 19-year-old Terrence Francois in connection with the case. Authorities said he was taken into custody weeks after the shooting and now faces a preliminary murder charge. Police also said he allegedly tried to run when officers located him on Indianapolis’ northeast side.
According to court documents, the deadly situation may have started over accusations involving flirtatious text messages. Golliday’s girlfriend reportedly told investigators that her brother came over wanting to speak with Golliday about what she described as “grown man” issues. Not long after the two men stepped outside the apartment, several gunshots rang out.
The woman allegedly told police that Golliday had been sending flirtatious messages to one of her relatives since January. Investigators believe the discovery of those messages may have fueled anger and retaliation that night.
Family members have since been left trying to process how a personal dispute turned deadly so quickly. Loved ones described the case as painful and shocking, especially because the victim was still young and had his whole future ahead of him. The sudden violence has also renewed conversations in the community about how quickly emotions and unresolved tension can spiral into tragedy.
Neighbors in the area said the shooting rattled the normally quiet apartment complex. Several residents recalled hearing multiple gunshots followed by screaming and panic outside. Some said they watched emergency crews desperately try to save Golliday before he was rushed away in an ambulance.
Police have continued investigating the case while urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Detectives are still piecing together the final moments leading up to the shooting and examining all communication connected to the dispute.
For those who knew Robert D. Golliday, the headlines and court filings only tell part of the story. Behind them is a grieving family now trying to cope with an unimaginable loss after what authorities believe began as a deeply personal argument turned deadly in a matter of seconds.
