A house cleaner was shot and killed in Indiana after mistakenly arriving at the wrong residence for work, prompting a police investigation into the homeowner’s actions under the state’s controversial “Stand-Your-Ground” law.
Maria Florinda Rios Perez, a 32-year-old mother of four originally from Guatemala, was found deceased in her husband’s arms on the front porch of a home in Whitesville, Indiana. The incident occurred early Wednesday, before 7:00 AM local time.
Her husband, Mauricio Velazquez, also 32, expressed his desire for justice. He told reporters the bullet was fired through the door without warning.
“They should have called the police first instead of just shooting without warning like that,” Velazquez said through an interpreter.
Police had initially responded to a report of a potential home invasion at the address. However, authorities stated that Perez and her husband did not appear to be attempting to break into the residence.
The case has been formally submitted to the Boone County Prosecutor’s Office. Prosecutors will determine whether to file criminal charges against the homeowner.
Boone County Prosecutor Kent Eastwood described the case as “complex.” He noted that it involves Indiana’s “Stand-Your-Ground” law.
This law, prevalent in several U.S. states, permits individuals to use reasonable force, including deadly force, to prevent death or serious bodily injury.
Police have not released the identity of the resident or the shooter. They cited a “complex, sensitive, and ongoing investigation.”
Officials also warned the public against spreading misinformation online. They asked for patience during the inquiry.
This incident marks another in a series of similar shootings that have drawn national attention in recent years.
In 2023, 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot twice in Missouri after ringing the wrong doorbell. The shooter, 80-year-old Andrew Lester, pleaded guilty and died awaiting sentencing.
In New York, 20-year-old Kaylin Gillis was killed after her car drove into the wrong driveway. The homeowner responsible for the shooting was later sentenced to 25 years in prison.