What began as a morning full of excitement and anticipation ended in unimaginable heartbreak for Natysha Offett. She had woken up early on what was supposed to be a joyful Saturday, July 12, 2025, preparing for a fun-filled family trip to King’s Island with her children. But when she went to wake her 12-year-old son, Izzy Offett, she noticed something was terribly wrong—his bed was empty.
Confused and concerned, she immediately called his phone. No answer. With growing panic, she checked his phone’s location data and found a chilling clue: Izzy was “out west”—nowhere near home, and certainly not somewhere a young boy should have been without supervision. Within moments, that rising anxiety spiraled into devastation. A call came in that would forever alter the course of her life.
Izzy and his older brother, 24-year-old Wayland Coe, had both been found shot inside a car near West 38th Street around 4 a.m. Police and paramedics rushed to the scene. The brothers were transported to the hospital in critical condition. Despite desperate efforts to save them, both succumbed to their injuries.
The morning that was supposed to be about roller coasters, laughter, and family bonding turned into a nightmare from which Natysha cannot awaken. She now faces the unthinkable: preparing to bury both of her sons—on the very same day she had planned to create joyful memories with them.
A Bond Between Brothers, Taken Too Soon
Izzy Offett, just 12 years old, was described by family and friends as vibrant, sweet-natured, and always curious about the world around him. He was entering his teenage years full of promise, enjoying sports, video games, and school, and still had so much life ahead. His energy lit up every room he entered, and he adored his older siblings.
Wayland Coe, 24, was more than just a big brother. He had often taken on a protector role in the family, especially with Izzy. Though navigating young adulthood and its many challenges, Wayland was said to be deeply devoted to his family, with a soft spot for his younger siblings. He was working on rebuilding his life, finding stability, and had recently talked about big plans for the future.
Their lives, intertwined by blood and bound by love, were cut short in a senseless act of violence that has left their community reeling with grief and outrage.
A City Grapples with Another Tragic Loss
The incident occurred in the early morning hours on Indianapolis’ west side—a part of the city that has seen its share of violence and tragedy. Gun violence continues to plague communities across the country, but each loss brings a fresh wave of anguish and sparks calls for deeper action, more support for youth, and a renewed commitment to community safety.
The deaths of Izzy and Wayland have sent shockwaves through their neighborhood and across the city. Friends, classmates, and neighbors are mourning the loss of two bright lives extinguished far too early.
A Mother’s Anguish
There are no words to capture the depth of sorrow that Natysha Offett is enduring. To lose one child is unfathomable. To lose two in a single morning is an agony beyond comprehension. The image of a mother rising early, preparing for a joyful day of laughter and memories, only to be met with news that will haunt her forever, is the cruelest twist of fate.
Now, instead of packing snacks and swimsuits, she is choosing caskets.
Now, instead of buckling her children into the car for a road trip, she is walking through a funeral home, making arrangements for the burial of her boys.
Her grief is a grief no parent should ever have to bear.
Justice, Answers, and a Long Road Ahead
As of now, details surrounding the shooting remain under investigation. Authorities have not yet publicly named any suspects or shared a motive, leaving loved ones with a devastating loss and many unanswered questions.
Community leaders are urging anyone with information to come forward. The family deserves answers, justice, and closure—not just for their own peace, but to help prevent another mother from facing this same nightmare.
A Call for Compassion and Community
In the wake of this tragedy, support is pouring in from across Indianapolis. Vigils are being planned. Fundraisers and memorials are being organized to help Natysha and her family with the overwhelming burden of funeral costs and ongoing support. More than ever, they need love, prayers, and tangible acts of kindness to navigate the dark days ahead.
This weekend should have been filled with laughter, rides, and family photos. Instead, it will be filled with tears, mourning, and the unbearable task of saying goodbye.
Izzy Offett was only 12.
Wayland Coe was just 24.
Their lives mattered. Their stories matter. And the legacy they leave behind will be one of love, brotherhood, and a family’s unbreakable bond—even in the face of unspeakable sorrow.
May their memory be a blessing, and may their mother find strength in the love of those around her.
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