In a shocking incident that has rattled the legal community and raised alarms about the safety of judicial officials, Tippecanoe County Superior Court Judge Steven P. Meyer and his wife, Kimberly Meyer, were shot in their suburban home in Lafayette, Indiana, on Sunday afternoon, January 18, 2026. The attack, which occurred in broad daylight in a quiet residential neighborhood, left both victims wounded but stable, while authorities continue an intensive manhunt for the unknown shooter. As of January 19, 2026, no suspect has been identified or apprehended, leaving the community on edge and prompting calls for heightened security among judges statewide.
The shooting took place around 2:17 p.m. in the 1700 block of Mill Pond Lane, a peaceful south-side Lafayette subdivision known for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to local parks and schools. Police responded swiftly to reports of gunfire at the residence, discovering Judge Meyer suffering from a gunshot wound to one of his arms and Kimberly Meyer with an injury to her hip. Both were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they were treated and reported to be in stable condition by Monday morning.
Judge Steven Meyer, who has served on the Tippecanoe County Superior Court 2 bench for over a decade, is a respected figure in the local judiciary. Colleagues describe him as dedicated, fair-minded, and deeply committed to justice in the community. He recently announced his intention to retire at the end of his current term, marking what was supposed to be a peaceful transition after years of service. Kimberly Meyer, his wife, has been a supportive partner throughout his career, and the couple is well-known in Lafayette for their involvement in community activities.
Indiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Loretta H. Rush issued a heartfelt statement expressing profound relief that both Judge Meyer and his wife survived the attack. In a message sent to fellow judges across the state, she wrote of her gratitude that they were “alive after having been shot in their home,” while emphasizing prayers for their speedy recovery. She also urged all judicial officers to remain vigilant and coordinate with local law enforcement for enhanced personal security measures. The statement highlighted growing national concerns over threats and violence directed at judges and public officials, placing this incident in a broader context of rising tensions.
Local judges echoed these sentiments. Tippecanoe Circuit Court Judge Sean Persin and others released statements affirming their support for the Meyers, describing Judge Meyer as a longtime friend and colleague whose well-being is a top priority. The Indiana judicial system has responded with increased precautions, including boosted patrols around judges’ residences and heightened awareness of potential risks.
Investigators from the Lafayette Police Department, working alongside the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office, West Lafayette Police Department, Indiana State Police, and even the FBI, have been gathering evidence at the scene. Shell casings were recovered, suggesting the use of a firearm—some reports indicate a shotgun may have been involved, with evidence found on the front porch. Despite these leads, details about the motive, the shooter’s identity, or any possible connection to Judge Meyer’s rulings remain scarce. Authorities have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and active, appealing to the public for any information that could help identify the perpetrator.
The absence of an immediate arrest has fueled speculation and concern. Lafayette’s mayor has stated that “every available resource is being used to apprehend the individual(s) responsible for this senseless unacceptable act of violence.” Residents in the area have expressed shock, noting that such incidents are rare in their community. Neighbors described the Meyers as kind and unassuming, making the targeted nature of the attack all the more unsettling.
This event comes at a time when the judiciary faces increasing scrutiny and occasional hostility nationwide, often tied to controversial cases or broader political divisions. While no direct link has been established in this case, the shooting underscores the vulnerabilities that judges and their families can face simply because of their roles in the justice system. Chief Justice Rush’s call for vigilance serves as a reminder that personal security for public officials is more critical than ever.
As Judge Meyer and his wife continue their recovery—one in Indianapolis for further treatment—the focus remains on finding answers. Who carried out this brazen assault in the middle of the day? Was it random, or connected to the judge’s work? These questions linger as law enforcement pursues every lead.
The people of Lafayette and the broader Indiana legal community stand united in support of the Meyers, hoping for justice and a swift resolution. In the meantime, the quiet suburb of Mill Pond Lane has become a symbol of how quickly safety can be shattered, even in the most ordinary settings. Prayers and well-wishes continue to pour in for the couple’s full recovery, while the search for the shooter presses on.
