Greenwood Man Charged with Murder and Feticide in Death of Pregnant Woman

Greenwood man charged with murder and feticide in the killing of a pregnant woman in Indianapolis.

A Greenwood man faces charges of murder and feticide following the brutal killing of a pregnant woman on the south side of Indianapolis.

Sha’Naiya McDonald, who was 20 weeks pregnant, was suffocated, stabbed, and beaten to death in her second-story apartment on Ella Dobbs Lane. The tragic incident occurred just one day before her 20th birthday.

The victim’s roommate identified the suspect as 22-year-old Regulus Baka, the father of the unborn child.

According to authorities, Baka confessed to the crime after a domestic dispute with his on-again, off-again girlfriend.

“What’s alleged in this case is deeply troubling,” said Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears. “It highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence in our community.”

Advocates for domestic violence awareness emphasize that violence against pregnant women is a critical issue. “Pregnancy increases the risk of homicide in domestic violence situations,” said Danyette Smith with Indy Champions. “It’s crucial for victims to seek help and recognize the heightened danger.”

Baka claimed he acted in self-defense, alleging that McDonald became angry, hit him, and threatened him with a knife. However, prosecutors provided details of the brutal attack. Baka admitted to striking McDonald in the head with a space heater, hitting her with a kitchen pan, and suffocating her with tape. He also confessed to stabbing her, stating, “I just wanted her dead.”

Attorney Mario Massillamany explained the legal requirements for proving feticide in Indiana. “The prosecutor must demonstrate that the suspect was aware of the pregnancy at the time of the crime,” he said.

Prosecutor Mears expressed confidence in their ability to meet this burden of proof. “We believe the evidence will show that the suspect knew or should have known she was pregnant,” Mears stated.

Surveillance and traffic camera footage captured Baka fleeing the scene in his brother’s car. This evidence led police to Baka’s apartment complex, where he was arrested after a brief standoff with SWAT officers.

Baka is currently being held without bond at the Marion County Jail, with a court hearing scheduled for next week.

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