James Matt Lushin, 47, was found dead in his home on March 12
Authorities in Indiana have made an arrest in connection with the death of local poker player James Matt Lushin, whose passing earlier this month shocked the community. Lushin, 47, was found dead in his home on March 12, with police later confirming the case as a homicide after initially labeling it suspicious.
Investigators announced that Ronald Dewayne Brown Jr. was taken into custody on March 27 and charged with murder. He is currently being held without bond in Hamilton County Jail and is awaiting his first court appearance. Officials have not yet shared details about a possible motive or the relationship between the two men.
Lushin was well known in the Indianapolis poker scene, where he built a reputation not only for his results but also for his personality. He had recorded more than $500,000 in live tournament earnings and had recently cashed in a World Series of Poker Circuit event shortly before his death.
Beyond poker, Lushin worked as a real estate investor and was described by friends as someone who balanced business success with a strong presence at the tables. He also traveled internationally to compete, adding results from stops in Europe to his resume.
Tributes have continued to pour in from friends and fellow players. Close friend Ben Grise honored Lushin while competing in high-stakes events in Las Vegas, reaching back-to-back heads-up finishes despite learning of the tragedy during the series.
Family and friends gathered in Kokomo for a funeral service, remembering Lushin as a devoted father and a positive influence on those around him. Many described him as someone who could easily lift the mood in any room.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities expected to release more information as the case develops.
