Indiana Woman Fatally Shot After Accidentally Going to Wrong House, sparking Outrage and Legal Scrutiny
A mother of three was fatally shot in Indiana after mistakenly approaching the wrong house while delivering flyers for her work, authorities said Friday. The shooting has ignited a debate over “stand your ground” laws and raised questions about the use of deadly force.
The victim, identified as Lorena Del Carmen Guevara-Rosas, 35, was shot Wednesday night in the 700 block of North Creek Way in Indianapolis. Her husband, velásquez, described his wife as “very loving, humble, happy” and dedicated to her family, adding, ”It’s so unjust. She was only trying to bring home the daily bread to support her family.” He stated she had only keys in her hand and posed no threat.
According to Boone County Prosecutor Kent Eastwood, Indiana’s “stand your ground” protections allow individuals to use “reasonable force, including deadly force,” to defend their dwellings against perceived threats. Eastwood confirmed his office will review the evidence to determine if criminal charges are appropriate.
The incident unfolded as Guevara-Rosas was making deliveries for a local door-to-door marketing company. She reportedly went to a home she believed was a client’s address but was incorrect. The homeowner, whose name has not been released, answered the door and shot her, police said.
Velásquez said his wife’s ”greatest gift” was their children and vowed to fight for them. The investigation is ongoing, and the prosecutor’s office will apply Indiana law to the specific facts of the case to determine next steps.
Daniella Silva is a national reporter for NBC News, focusing on immigration and education. David K. Li, Francisco Fajardo, Noticias Telemundo and Erin mclaughlin contributed.