An Indiana judge and his wife were shot at their residence, but reports indicate that both are currently in stable condition, according to local and state authorities on Monday. This incident raises serious concerns about the escalating violence against public officials across the nation. The shooting took place in Lafayette, Indiana, at around 2:17 p.m. on Sunday, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.
The victims have been identified as Steven P. Meyer, a Tippecanoe County judge who recently announced his retirement, and his wife, Kimberly Meyer. Steven was injured in the arm while Kimberly sustained an injury to her hip. Fortunately, both individuals are reported to be recovering well.
As of now, law enforcement has not disclosed any information about a suspect, and the shooter remains at large. The Lafayette Police Department is collaborating with various agencies, including the Indiana State Police, the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, and others, to investigate the incident thoroughly.
In an expression of gratitude, Kimberly Meyer shared her appreciation for the support from their community as well as the medical personnel who treated them. Steven Meyer has a history of public service, having previously been a city council member before becoming a county judge in 2014. He is known for his tough stances, including recently sentencing an individual to 40 years in prison for a tragic incident involving a firearm that led to the death of a child.
This incident follows a worrying trend of attacks on public officials, reminiscent of the political violence seen during the 1960s. High-profile cases include the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in September, the tragic killing of Democratic lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband in June, and other attacks on officials and their homes over the past year.
Indiana Chief Justice Loretta H. Rush expressed her concern regarding the safety of judges, noting that they must feel and be safe as they handle over a million cases annually. She condemned any violence aimed at judges and their families, emphasizing that such acts are completely unacceptable.
The community’s reaction has been largely supportive, highlighting the importance of standing together against violence toward public servants. The ongoing investigation is crucial not only for seeking justice for the Meyers but also in addressing the rising tide of political violence in the country.