Fugitive Murder Suspect Erroneously Released, Federal Law Enforcement Takes Over
A fugitive murder suspect, Kevin L. Mason, was mistakenly released from a county jail in Indianapolis, causing officials to now rely on federal law enforcement agencies to lead the pursuit. Last week, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office announced the erroneous release of Mason, who was charged with second-degree intentional murder and illegal weapons possession in connection with a slaying that occurred outside a prominent North Side church in Minneapolis.
According to the investigation, Mason left Indianapolis on the evening of September 13, with ties to the Indianapolis region. Authorities believe he fled shortly after the murder. The U.S. Marshals Services have taken charge of the effort to capture Mason, with Sheriff Kerry J. Forestal expressing confidence in the extensive resources and capabilities of the federal partners.
Regrettably, the mistaken release of the suspect has raised concerns about the efficiency and reliability of the county jail’s procedures. Mason had three active arrest warrants in Minnesota, including one related to the June 2021 murder. His release on September 13 led to the termination of two county employees responsible for the oversight.
The delayed public alert from the Sheriff’s Office, notifying the public six days after the mistaken release, was a strategic decision to maintain a tactical advantage and increase the likelihood of capturing Mason before he could find refuge. Nevertheless, officials are now seeking the support of the community in locating and safely apprehending the fugitive.
Described as a Black male, standing at 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing around 205 pounds, Mason sports distinctive tattoos. He has a cross tattoo under his right eye and a SUB tattoo on his chest, in addition to a neck tattoo. Investigators urge anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward and assist in the pursuit of justice.
The charges against Mason stem from the fatal shooting of Dontevius A. Catchings outside Shiloh Temple on West Broadway. The incident occurred during funeral services for Christopher Jones Jr., one of the two men killed outside a nightclub in downtown Minneapolis in May 2021. Mason and Catchings, who were reportedly long-time friends, engaged in a physical altercation over the refusal to return a gun, according to one mourner’s statement. All three individuals were believed to be associated with the same street gang.
It is important to remember that Mason had a prior criminal history, including armed robbery convictions in Hennepin County in 2013. At the time of the shooting, he had a pending felony fleeing police charge. Despite Mason’s attempts to evade law enforcement by deleting his Facebook page and leaving the state, authorities are determined to locate and apprehend him.
The involvement of federal law enforcement agencies, such as the U.S. Marshals Services, highlights the significance of collaboration and the utilization of extensive resources to bring fugitives to justice. The focus now lies on capturing Kevin Mason and ensuring that the judicial process can proceed accordingly. The pursuit continues, with the collective efforts of law enforcement and the support of the community driving the search for the fugitive murder suspect.
