EAST CHICAGO, Ind. – The police in East Chicago, Indiana are seeking the community’s help in solving two unsolved murders that occurred in 2021. Eric Douglas and Angelica Casares were victims of separate shootings, and despite efforts by the police, their cases remain unresolved.
The city of East Chicago saw a significant decrease in homicide rates by 55% last year, but the clearance rate for the cases that did occur was at 80%. Despite this success, the police department continues to grapple with the challenge of solving cold cases, particularly the murders of Douglas and Casares.
The murder of 21-year-old Casares is particularly troubling due to the violent nature of the crime and the use of an AK-47. Police Chief Jose Rivera expressed his concern about the case, as the weapon was found near Casares’ body, yet her murder remains unsolved.
Similarly, the execution-style killing of Douglas outside Ralo’s Bar on Christmas Day 2021 has left investigators puzzled. Surveillance video from inside the bar captured the moments leading to the murder, but the lack of cooperation from witnesses and the community has hindered the investigation.
Activists from “Case Files Chicago” have partnered with the police department to encourage witnesses to come forward with vital information. Their collaboration aims to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community in solving these cases.
Anyone with information that may lead to an arrest is urged to contact either the East Chicago Police Department or “Case File Chicago’s” “Lock it Down” anonymous tip line, with the organization offering a $1,000 reward for the information.
The unresolved murders of Eric Douglas and Angelica Casares are a somber reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement and the community in solving violent crimes. The police continue to appeal to the public for cooperation and assistance in bringing justice to the victims and closure to their families.