Indiana Judge Steven Meyer Shot at Home: Investigation Underway
An Indiana judge was shot at his home by an unknown suspect, with no prior threats recorded against him. Judge Steven Meyer and his wife were injured when the suspect knocked on their door and shot through it. This incident was the first act of violence against the judge, with no previous threats or calls reported.
Steven Meyer was shot in the arm, and Kimberly Meyer was shot in the hip, leading to their hospitalization. The number of shots fired is unknown, but shell casings were found at the scene. As of Monday, Steven Meyer was in stable condition in the hospital.
Judge Steven Meyer, a Democrat, has served as a Tippecanoe Superior Court judge for 12 years and decided not to seek reelection for a third term in the upcoming November 2026 elections. He gained national attention for presiding over the trials of Michael and Kristine Barnett, the adoptive parents of Natalia Grace, a Ukrainian orphan with dwarfism.
The Barnetts faced charges of neglecting a dependent due to Grace's disability, with Judge Meyer ordering that Grace be referred to as an adult based on a court ruling. Michael Barnett was found not guilty in 2022, and Kristine Barnett's charges were dismissed in 2023. Grace has not been implicated in the Meyers' shooting and has not been charged with a crime.
Chief Justice Loretta Rush expressed concern for the safety of judges and urged vigilance as the shooter remains at large. Kimberly Meyer thanked local officials for their involvement in the case and appreciated the community's support. Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski condemned the shooting as senseless violence and pledged resources for the investigation.
No arrests have been made, and officials have not provided a suspect description. Multiple agencies, including the Lafayette Police Department, Indiana State Police, and the FBI, are involved in the investigation. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Lafayette Police Department.