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Man charged in mass shooting at Muncie block party pleads not guilty

John Vance Jr..png
John Vance Jr.png
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DELAWARE COUNTY — The man charged in connection to the mass shooting at a Muncie block party last month has plead not guilty.

John Vance Jr., 36, appeared before a judge for the first time Tuesday morning. He's currently facing charges of aggravated battery, unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon and criminal recklessness for the July 30 shooting.

John Vance Jr.png

Police say one man was killed and nearly 20 others were injured in the shooting when gunfire broke out at a party in a parking lot near South Hackley and Willard Street.

Joseph Bonner, 30, was identified as the victim who died, but the shooting left an additional 18 wounded — 17 from gunshots and one from being hit by a car.

So far, Vance is the only person charged in connection with the shooting. He is not charged in connection with Bonner's death. No others have been charged at this time.

Officials say additional charges are possible against Vance as their investigation continues.

READ MORE | 'Our community was shaken to the core': Muncie begins healing process after weekend mass shooting

Vance's trial is currently scheduled to take place in January of 2024.