INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Authorities say a night out at a local bar turned deadly after an alleged outburst of racist language and violence led to the fatal shooting of a patron who tried to keep the peace.

Kaeden Douglas, 21, was arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the July 17 shooting death of Jereme Dillingham, 28, at the Mucky Duck bar on the city’s south side, according to police and court documents.

Investigators allege that Douglas became visibly intoxicated after spending several hours at the bar. Witnesses said Douglas’s behavior grew increasingly belligerent, culminating in aggressive actions including slamming a chair and scuffling with another customer. Dillingham, described by witnesses as attempting to defuse the altercation, intervened between Douglas and the other man.

Court records indicate the initial confrontation between Dillingham and Douglas ended with a handshake and hug, suggesting the dispute had been resolved. However, tensions flared again when Douglas turned his anger toward bar staff. Security personnel eventually escorted him out, during which Douglas allegedly threatened, “you all are dead men,” according to the probable cause affidavit.

Once outside, Douglas reportedly argued with a woman at the patio area, at one point allegedly slapping her and provoking a retaliatory strike. Court documents state that as the argument escalated, Douglas told her he had “something for you” before heading to his car.

As Douglas walked to his Dodge Charger, several witnesses reported hearing him yell racial slurs at Dillingham. Surveillance footage viewed by investigators showed Dillingham walking toward Douglas’s vehicle as the suspect apparently prepared to leave the parking lot. Authorities say the video depicts Dillingham reaching into the driver’s side window just before Douglas fired a single fatal shot.

Douglas then left the scene at high speed, police said. Several individuals at the bar were able to positively identify Douglas as the suspect. Officers apprehended the 21-year-old later at his home, where he was interviewed by detectives.

After being advised of his rights, Douglas gave conflicting accounts of the events, according to police reports. At first, he denied recalling the night’s events, insisting he hadn’t fought anyone since middle school. Later, he acknowledged heavy drinking and claimed he feared for his safety, though he was unable to explain what prompted that fear.

The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office cited the use of “racist and vile language” in connection with the shooting, emphasizing the deadly consequences when alcohol-fueled aggression mixes with hate.

Douglas remains held at the Marion County Jail without bond. He is scheduled to appear in court again on September 29 as the case moves forward.