Arrests Made in Fatal Shooting of Kristina Ortiz in South Bend — Two Men Now in Custody

SOUTH BEND, IN (July 18, 2025) — South Bend Police have made arrests in the tragic shooting death of Kristina Ortiz, 37, who was found fatally wounded in the 500 block of Wenger Street on June 7. After weeks of investigative efforts, authorities have identified and apprehended two suspects in connection to the killing: 23-year-old Nicholas Fairchild and 20-year-old Jalil Wills.

The Incident

On the evening of June 7, 2025, emergency responders were dispatched to the 500 block of Wenger Street following reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, officers discovered Kristina Ortiz suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Despite life-saving efforts, she succumbed to her injuries at the scene.

The incident shocked the local community and prompted an immediate and thorough investigation by the South Bend Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit.

A Witness, A Vehicle, and Surveillance Footage

Crucial developments in the case came days after the shooting. Investigators say a witness at the scene provided a description of a suspicious vehicle, which became the first major lead in the case. That vehicle was later matched to surveillance footage captured near University Park Mall prior to the homicide.

The surveillance video showed the vehicle in question and allegedly revealed two individuals exiting and reentering it. Those individuals were later identified as Nicholas Fairchild and Jalil Wills.

The Voice Note Confession

The investigation intensified when police obtained a voice note allegedly sent by Jalil Wills on June 10, just three days after Ortiz’s murder. In the voice message, Wills reportedly admitted to firing a 19 Gen 5 handgun and striking a woman in the head.

Even more incriminating, according to investigators, Wills said in the message that he needed to trade the firearm because it was “dirty,” suggesting an awareness of the weapon’s link to a criminal act.

Detectives were able to trace the voice note and corroborate it with other digital evidence, ultimately leading to the arrests of both Wills and Fairchild.

Charges and Custody

Both men are now in police custody. Jalil Wills has been formally charged with:

  • Murder
  • Criminal Recklessness with a Deadly Weapon

Meanwhile, Nicholas Fairchild faces a charge of:

  • Assisting a Criminal

Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges as the investigation continues.

Community and Law Enforcement Response

The murder of Kristina Ortiz has deeply impacted the South Bend community. Described by those who knew her as “compassionate and full of life,” Ortiz’s death is being mourned by family, friends, and neighbors who are left grappling with the sudden and senseless loss.

South Bend Police credited the arrest to a combination of witness cooperation, surveillance technology, and relentless investigative work.

“This case is a painful reminder of how quickly lives can be taken due to reckless violence,” said a spokesperson for the department. “We are thankful for the public’s help and proud of the work our officers and detectives put into identifying and arresting those responsible.”

Ongoing Investigation

While arrests have been made, South Bend Police urge anyone with additional information about the events leading up to the shooting—or the suspects’ whereabouts or activities before and after the crime—to come forward. Tips can be shared anonymously through Michiana Crime Stoppers or by calling the South Bend Police Department directly.

Seeking Justice for Kristina

As legal proceedings begin, the family of Kristina Ortiz is calling for justice and asking for privacy as they navigate their grief. A memorial is reportedly being planned in her honor, and loved ones continue to reflect on her life and the void left behind.

The investigation into her death underscores the devastating impact of gun violence and the need for continued community vigilance and cooperation.

If you have any information regarding this case, contact South Bend Police at (574) 235-9201 or Crime Stoppers at 574-288-STOP.

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