Tragedy Strikes East Side Home: 5-Year-Old Girl Found Dead, Father Arrested

An Indianapolis man is behind bars after his 5-year-old daughter was found dead in their home on the city's east side. According to online police reports, IMPD officers were dispatched to a home in the 200 block of North Lasalle Street just north of Washington Street around 11 a.m. Monday morning.

Police arrived and found 5-year-old Zara Arnold suffering trauma injuries. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

“I am heartbroken by the tragic loss of 5-year-old Zara. No child should suffer such harm, especially in a place that should be safe: their home,” said IMPD Chief Chris Bailey.

Zachary Arnold, 41, was arrested and could face charges of murder and neglect of a dependent resulting in death. The Marion County prosecutor is expected to make final charging decisions.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Det. Jamie Davis in the IMPD Child Abuse Office at 317-327-6875 or by email at .