A Cumberland, Indiana woman fatally shot a man who allegedly attempted to sexually assault her in her home. Police say evidence supports her self-defense claim, and the investigation is ongoing.
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CUMBERLAND, IN (3-minute read) — A quiet Sunday evening in Cumberland turned tragic after a woman shot and killed a man she says attacked her inside her home.
Just after 7 p.m., officers with the Cumberland Metropolitan Police Department responded to reports of a disturbance involving a firearm on the 11300 block of Dunshire Drive. When they arrived, they found a distressed woman outside the home. She told officers that a man was inside the residence and had been shot after attacking her.
Inside, police located a man suffering from a gunshot wound. He was rushed to a hospital in Indianapolis in critical condition, where doctors performed emergency surgery. Despite their efforts, the man died from his injuries.
According to early findings, the man and woman knew each other, and he had been invited to the home. At some point during the visit, the man reportedly made repeated unwanted sexual advances. When the woman tried to put space between them, the man followed her into another room, where a sexual assault began.
In the midst of the attack, the woman managed to access a firearm and fired one shot, striking the man. She also sustained injuries during the assault and was later treated at a nearby hospital.
Evidence Backs Woman’s Self-Defense Claim
Investigators interviewed witnesses and gathered physical evidence at the scene, which authorities say aligns with the woman’s account. She has been cooperating fully with police.
Cumberland Police have notified the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office, which will review the case once the investigation concludes. So far, no charges have been filed.
Self-defense laws in Indiana allow individuals to use reasonable force, including deadly force, if they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent serious bodily harm or a forcible felony like rape. In such cases, being trained and familiar with how to safely and lawfully use a firearm can make all the difference.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Cumberland Police at (317) 894-3525 or email [email protected]. Anonymous tips can also be sent to CrimeStoppers of Indiana at (317) 262-TIPS.
Safety Tip: If you own a firearm for self-defense, ensure it is stored securely but remains accessible in an emergency. Regularly train and familiarize yourself with both the legal and practical aspects of defensive firearm use.
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