A quiet Sunday afternoon in Lafayette, Indiana, turned into a scene of horror when an unknown gunman targeted a local judge and his wife.
The shocking attack left both injured, rattling not just the city but the state’s judicial community.
Attack Unfolds at the Meyer Home
Judge Steven Meyer and his wife, Kimberly, were at home around 2:17 p.m. when the intruder approached their front door.
According to dispatch recordings obtained by CBS News, the caller who reported the incident said someone knocked on the door claiming they had the couple’s dog—before gunshots rang out through the entrance.
Police found both victims with gunshot wounds: Judge Meyer was struck in the arm, while Kimberly Meyer suffered an injury to her hip.
They were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital and are now in stable condition.
Authorities Respond Swiftly
Investigators discovered spent shell casings at the scene, though no suspect has yet been identified, and authorities have not released a possible motive.
The Lafayette Police Department is leading the investigation, assisted by a wide network of agencies, including the Indiana State Police, Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office, West Lafayette Police, the county prosecutor, and the FBI.
Gratitude and Confidence from the Victims
In a statement shared Monday, Kimberly Meyer expressed her thanks to first responders and medical personnel, emphasizing her confidence in the investigators handling the case.
“We are deeply grateful for the care and support we’ve received,” she said.
Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski also weighed in, calling the shooting “senseless” and pledging that “every available resource” would be used to identify the perpetrator.
Ripple Effects in the Judiciary
The attack has sent shockwaves through Indiana’s judicial system.
Indiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Loretta Rush addressed judges statewide, expressing relief that the Meyers survived while highlighting ongoing concerns about threats against judges.
“I worry about the safety of all our judges.
As you work to peacefully resolve more than 1 million cases a year, you must not only feel safe, you must also be safe,” Rush said.
She stressed that any violence targeting a judge or their family is “completely unacceptable” and urged colleagues to take personal security seriously.
Ensuring Court Functions Continue
Court officials confirmed that temporary arrangements are being discussed to cover Judge Meyer’s responsibilities on the Tippecanoe County Superior Court No. 2 bench while he recovers.
Judge Meyer’s Legacy in Lafayette
Judge Meyer has been a prominent figure in Lafayette’s legal community for decades.
Elected to the state bench in 2014, he previously served on the Lafayette City Council, including a term as council president.
Before his judicial career, he practiced law locally for nearly 30 years, including as a managing partner at Ball Eggleston, PC.
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