Indiana Teen Allegedly Went On Killing Spree Inspired By Horror Movie, Texted His Mom Live Updates

By Casey Harper

Authorities say an Indiana teen who allegedly went on a four-day killing spree was inspired by “The Purge,” a 2013 movie where people can legally kill and commit crimes for 12 hours to get it out of their system.

Jonathan Cruz, 19, allegedly killed three people from May 12 through 15, Fox 59 reports. Authorities said he allegedly killed at random and sent texts to his girlfriend referencing his “purge.” One victim was found dead on a sidewalk with two gunshot wounds to the head. Another victim was later found dead on a sidewalk after being fatally shot. Another was found shot dead in a car.

Court documents allege that he had no remorse for his murders. In the documents, he is quoted telling a girl he held at gunpoint, “Another body wouldn’t mean anything.” He even videoed some of his alleged crime spree on his phone, including one where he shoots a gun out of a car vehicle. He did not kill the girl, only targeting men.

“Better go on Face book and watch da Videos of me shootin people,” Cruz wrote in a text to his girlfriend. “I Purge every night now.”

According to court documents, Cruz’s mother texted him asking what he was doing, and he sent back a screenshot of an article about the murders. He then allegedly said he would get a new phone so authorities wouldn’t see what he just sent.

“Delete those after u read it,” he texted his mother. Later he updated her, saying “buyin new gun.”

Authorities say he also robbed and kidnapped during the spree. He is facing 17 charges, including murder and armed robbery. He is also facing criminal gang enhancement charges because prosecutors say they believe he was connected to gang activity.

“I want to commend the hard work of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and Marion County Prosecutor’s Office that resulted in the filing of today’s charges,” Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said in a statement. “Senseless acts of violence such as those alleged in this case are incomprehensible, but thanks to the swift actions of IMPD detectives, prosecutor Terry Curry and witnesses willing to come forward, we are one step closer to providing answers for these victims’ families.”

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