Vehicle-Involved Burglary at Indianapolis Fireworks Store at 21st Street and Emerson Avenue Results in Property Damage

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police responded to a vehicle-involved burglary Wednesday morning at approximately 5:45 a.m. on the east side of the city. The incident occurred at Big Wick Fireworks, located at the intersection of 21st Street and Emerson Avenue, where five to six suspects crashed a vehicle through the store's entrance to gain access. Store owner Aaron Sparks was alerted by his business alarm system and reviewed surveillance footage showing the perpetrators backing a car into the building's entrance. The suspects, described as young individuals wearing hoodies, quickly exited the vehicle and grabbed fireworks merchandise before fleeing the scene. The thieves also targeted additional businesses in the area, including a taco truck and a closed bar behind the main building. IMPD responded rapidly due to an officer who happened to be at a nearby gas station when the call came in. The officer pursued the suspects on foot but was unable to apprehend them. Despite the front entrance being severely damaged, Sparks confirmed his business would remain operational while the investigation continues.

Location and Infrastructure

The incident occurred at 21st Street and Emerson Avenue on Indianapolis's east side, a commercial area that houses multiple businesses including the targeted fireworks store. This intersection sits in a mixed-use district with various retail establishments, gas stations, and food service businesses operating in close proximity. The area experiences moderate traffic flow throughout the day, with increased activity during business hours. The presence of multiple businesses in the immediate vicinity, including the gas station where the responding officer was located, indicates this is an established commercial corridor. The building that houses Big Wick Fireworks contains multiple tenant spaces, which may have contributed to the suspects' ability to target several businesses during the same incident. The proximity of emergency services and the quick response time suggest adequate infrastructure for law enforcement patrol coverage in this commercial district.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Indiana law, this incident constitutes burglary and criminal mischief, with potential federal implications if stolen fireworks cross state lines. Business owners like Sparks may pursue compensation through commercial property insurance policies that typically cover both theft and property damage from criminal acts. Indiana's statute of limitations for property damage claims is generally two years from the date of discovery, while insurance claims should be filed promptly according to policy terms. Victims may be entitled to compensation for stolen merchandise, property damage, lost business income, and security system repairs or upgrades. The use of a vehicle in the commission of the crime may result in additional charges and could affect the severity of penalties. Business owners should document all losses thoroughly with photographs, receipts, and inventory records to support both insurance claims and any potential restitution orders if suspects are apprehended and convicted.

Related Resources

• Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD): (317) 327-3282
• Indianapolis Fire Department Emergency Services: 911
• Marion County Prosecutor's Office Victim Services: (317) 327-5299
• Indiana Crime Victims Compensation Program: (317) 232-7103
• Better Business Bureau of Central Indiana: (317) 488-2222
• Indiana Department of Insurance Consumer Services: (317) 232-2385
• National Center for Victims of Crime: 1-855-484-2846
• Indiana Code Title 35 (Criminal Law): https://iga.in.gov/legislative/laws/2023/ic/titles/035
• Marion County Small Business Development Center: (317) 274-2820