An Indiana man is sitting behind bars after police say a dispute over rent ended with him fatally stabbing his own brother — an argument that was allegedly caught on surveillance video.
Authorities say 59-year-old Thomas Campbell was arrested Saturday and charged with murder in the death of his younger brother, Erik Campbell, 53.
According to court documents obtained by WGN, Erik was sent by the brothers’ mother to collect rent from Thomas, who lived in one of her properties. Witnesses told police the confrontation quickly escalated, with the two men arguing intensely over the payment.
Surveillance footage reportedly captured the brothers facing off, with Erik pleading for Thomas to show what he had hidden in his hoodie pocket. Despite expressing concern, Erik allegedly told his brother he was not afraid of him, even accusing Thomas of intimidating others.
Court records say Erik attempted to disarm Thomas and appeared ready to fight with his fists. That’s when the argument allegedly turned deadly.
Prosecutors say video shows Thomas pulling out a knife and stabbing his brother multiple times in the neck, arm, chest, and stomach.
After the attack, police say Thomas himself called 911, claiming he stabbed Erik because he believed his brother was threatening him with a gun. When officers arrived, they found Thomas sitting on the front porch, covered in blood, while Erik lay face down on the ground, unresponsive. Investigators say no firearm was found at the scene.
During questioning, Thomas allegedly told detectives that he “blacked out” and claimed Erik struck him first. He also told police that his younger brother had “constantly bullied him” and that tensions between them had been building for more than 20 years.
Detectives also spoke with the brothers’ mother, who reportedly told investigators that Thomas had a long-standing issue with paying rent.
Thomas Campbell has been charged with murder and is currently being held without bond at the Lake County Jail. He is scheduled to appear in court on Jan. 12.
The case remains under investigation as authorities review surveillance footage and witness statements surrounding the fatal family dispute.
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