Police arrested a man Wednesday night wanted in a woman’s March 2022 murder, according to a news release.
Acting on a tip, Merrillville police officers arrested Malik L. Bunch, 25, of Munster and Merrillville, outside his house on the 7700 block of Montana Street around 7:50 p.m. after a short foot chase. He was taken to the Lake County Jail on a warrant.
Bunch was charged Sept. 21 with two counts of murder and one count of theft in the death of Jela Burnett Cooper, 25.
Authorities believe she died sometime between March 26-28, 2022. It accuses Bunch of stealing her iPhone and jewelry.
Bunch allegedly killed her at Whitcomb Terrace Apartments, 3944 W 77th Pl., according to the release.
Little is still publicly known about the circumstances of her death. Court documents still do not include a probable cause affidavit, which details the information investigators gathered.
A spokeswoman for the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office previously declined comment and didn’t elaborate on why the case was brought before a grand jury. A source said the grand jury concluded there was enough evidence for charges last month.
Court records show Bunch is out on bond in a felony theft case. Filings appear to show he has two pending theft cases in LaPorte County.
Bunch was charged Sept. 16 with misdemeanor resisting law enforcement for running from the cops.
Anyone with more information can contact Merrillville Police Commander Joshua Miskus at jmiskus@merrillville.in.gov or 219-769-3531 Ext 351.
