Switz. Co. Prosecutor Deems Fatal Shooting Justifiable

Switzerland County Prosecutor Ryan Marshall has deemed a fatal shooting from July of 2024 as justified. 

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(Switzerland County, Ind.) - Switzerland County Prosecutor Ryan Marshall has deemed a fatal shooting from July of 2024 as justified. 

On July 21, 2024, a homeowner located in the 10000 block of Searcy Ridge Road near Patriot, observed a male, identified as Aaron Snyder, in his residence after allegedly breaking through a door. 

The homeowner fired at least one shot at the suspect, striking Snyder. EMS was called and Snyder was pronounced dead at the scene. 

Over the course of the investigation, Indiana State Police learned there were two adults and some small children in the home at the time of the incident. Forensic evidence of Snyder's blood revealed that Snyder's blood contained an extremely high level of methamphetamine and amphetamine.

ISP investigators were able to confirm that Snyder had an outstanding arrest warrant out of Clermont County. The Switzerland County Prosecutor’s Office also noted Snyder’s criminal history of violence and threats that resulted in convictions in Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky over 17 years.

On Friday, Prosecutor Marshall released the following statement: 

"After reviewing this investigation, the State of Indiana has determined that compelling evidence exists that Homeowner has a valid legal claim of (1) Self-defense, (2) Defense of at least 3 other people, including his two infant children, (3) and defense of his dwelling. In light of the known facts, Homeowner’s conduct was reasonable given the imminent threat of harm posed by Aaron Snyder. While every death is tragic, not every killing arises to a criminal offense. And although rare, truly valid justifications for lethal force do exist. Such claims are accordingly protected under Indiana law. That is certainly the case here, in which a young father, and law-abiding gun owner took necessary action to protect himself and his family. Having reviewed this matter, the State of Indiana has concluded that criminal prosecution under these circumstances would be fundamentally unjust and therefore unwarranted. No further action is necessary. This shooting was justified."

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