Uber Driver Charged in Tragic Case Involving the Death of Indianapolis Woman

An Uber driver, 29-year-old Francisco Valadez, has been charged with murder following the death of 30-year-old Indianapolis resident Chanti Dixon. Valadez, who was detained on Tuesday, September 10, allegedly confessed to r@ping and murdering Dixon after picking her up from work on Sunday, September 8.

             

Detectives from the Indianapolis Metro Police Department (IMPD) arrested Valadez while investigating the case. According to court documents, Valadez admitted to becoming enraged after attempting to assault Dixon in the back of his vehicle. He shot her and then disposed of her body in a wooded area near her home.

Officers were called to Wagner Lane on Monday, September 9, after Dixon’s family, using her phone’s tracking feature, discovered her body. The Marion County Coroner’s Office later identified the victim as Dixon, who had been shot in the head.

Valadez initially gave conflicting accounts to the police, including a claim that an armed man had attempted to rob Dixon. However, after further questioning, Valadez admitted to the crime. Investigators also recovered evidence from his vehicle.

During a press conference on Tuesday, IMPD Chief Chris Bailey described the case as "disgusting and disturbing," expressing sympathy for the victim's family. "This is a family that’s been ripped apart by an evil act," Bailey said, adding that further charges against Valadez are likely.

IMPD Assistant Chief Catherine Cummings emphasized the importance of safety for women in the community. "Women, girls, mothers... they have a right to exist freely in our community without fear of something heinous happening to them," she stated.

The IMPD encouraged residents to continue using rideshare services but advised users to always share their location with friends and family.

Valadez is currently in custody at the Marion County Jail, and the date for his initial court appearance is still pending. The Marion County Prosecutor's Office is expected to review the case and determine further charges.