Man Fatally Shot Over Gold Coins that Killer Later Tried to Exchange at Pawn Shop for Gold Bar By Liam Quinn

An Indiana man was sentenced to 55 years in prison after killing a 67-year-old man from whom authorities said he stole gold coins.

Chavez Gustin, 22, was sentenced on Jan. 5 after pleading guilty in December to one count of felony murder as part of an agreement with prosecutors that saw a murder and burglary charge dismissed in exchange for the guilty plea.

WANE and WPTA reported that the murder charges stem from the death of Roger Swedzinski, 67, who was found fatally shot in his home in Fort Wayne, Ind., in July 2025.

Citing court documents, WANE reported that Swedzinski was found dead in his basement, with his gun safe open and scattered valuables.

According to the outlets, missing from Swedzinski’s home were several American Eagle gold coins.

WPTA reported that Gustin was seen on camera two days later exchanging the gold coins at a pawn shop for a gold bar.

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Prior to the shooting, WPTA reported, citing court documents, Swedzinski had been attempting to sell the gold coins on Facebook Marketplace.

The outlet reported that Swedzinski had listed the coins for $4,400.

“As a grandfather, Roger embraced his role with joy and enthusiasm,” his online obituary reads. “Known for being goofy grandpa, he was always ready with a new loud toy or a fun ice cream outing. His grandchildren were his greatest treasures, and he cherished every moment spent with them.”