Dominique Washington has been arrested for allegedly murdering two individuals in Indiana.
At a Glance
- Richmond drug dealer Dominique M. Washington was arrested in the alleged murder of two people.
- Victims Christina Dixon and Matthew Johnson were found in St. Marys River.
- The bodies were discovered by volunteers near Guldlin Park.
- Washington is in custody facing multiple charges. He is being held without bond.
Arrest of Dominique Washington
Dominique M. Washington, reportedly a Richmond drug dealer, has been arrested for the alleged murders of Christina Dixon, 40, and Matthew Johnson, 41. The bodies of the victims were discovered in the St. Marys River by volunteers cleaning near Guldlin Park. Richmond Police Chief Kyle Weatherly has expressed condolences to the victims’ families and committed to ensuring justice is served.
Both victims were found to have suffered from multiple forms of violence. The horrific nature of their deaths has sent shockwaves through the community.
NEWS: Officers believe Dominique Washington murdered Matthew Johnson and Christina Dixon, whose bodies were found in a river in Fort Wayne last Friday. https://t.co/lQxfd3J7g0
— 93 WIBC Indianapolis (@93wibc) September 24, 2024
Events Leading to the Arrest
An investigation has revealed that Johnson met with Washington at Genesis Apartments in Richmond on September 19. Washington’s brother reportedly instructed a witness to pick up Johnson’s motorcycle from the complex. On the same day, Washington and Johnson allegedly picked up Dixon, who had left her 9-year-old son, saying she would return soon. Dixon’s son said he saw her enter a vehicle driven by Washington with Johnson in the front seat.
Their phones went off the network after they entered the vehicle. Police believe Washington switched vehicles and killed them along the journey before disposing of their bodies in the river and returning to Richmond. Surveillance confirmed a vehicle matching Washington’s traveled southbound on U.S. 27 and later near I-70 into Richmond. Records show Johnson’s last contact was “Nico Bro,” identified as Washington.
Ongoing Investigation and Charges
Many reports, along with court documents from the Fort Wayne Police Department, indicated that Johnson and Dixon were confidential informants for Richmond who had recently led police to a residence where a significant amount of narcotics was found. However, Richmond Police Department posted on Facebook on September 24 denying that Johnson and Dixon had any affiliation with the police.
Washington, connected to the owner of the residence searched, faces charges of murder, felony murder, kidnapping, and more. He is being held without bond, and police have indicated that further arrests and information will be forthcoming.
“Our hearts go out to the families of Christina and Matthew as they endure this tragic loss. We remain steadfast in our commitment to bringing justice to them,” Richmond Police Chief Kyle Weatherly said. He added that the arrest of Washington is just one part of “ensuring that those responsible for such horrific acts are held accountable. We will continue working tirelessly alongside our partners to ensure justice is served.” He added that there would be further arrests and updates on the situation.
Washington, reportedly with a lengthy criminal history including robbery and narcotics possession, was captured near his home by a collaboration of State Police SWAT, FWPD, and RPD. Investigations continue as authorities promise to deliver justice for Dixon and Johnson.
Sources
- 2 found dead in Indiana river after being shot, stabbed and strangled, ‘known drug dealer’ arrested
- Richmond police confirm man, woman found in Fort Wayne river were confidential informants
- Man charged with murder after bodies of 2 Connersville people pulled from Fort Wayne river; Richmond PD denies victims were police informants