Incident Overview
On Wednesday, a house cleaner, Maria Florinda Rios Perez, was fatally shot in Whitestown, an Indianapolis suburb, after reportedly arriving at the incorrect address for a scheduled cleaning appointment. The incident occurred shortly before 07:00 local time (12:00 GMT).
Police Response and Investigation
Authorities responded to a report of a possible home invasion at the residence. Upon arrival, Ms. Perez was found deceased on the front porch. Police statements indicate that Ms. Perez and an accompanying individual did not appear to have entered the home.
The case has been formally submitted to the Boone County Prosecutor's Office for review to determine if criminal charges will be filed. As of Friday, law enforcement officials have not publicly identified the homeowner or the individual who discharged the firearm, citing the "complex, delicate, and evolving nature" of the investigation and expressing concerns about "misinformation online." They have requested public patience.
Family Statement
Mauricio Velazquez, the husband of the 32-year-old victim, has publicly called for justice. He reported that the fatal shot was fired through the door of the residence. Mr. Velazquez stated that he believes law enforcement should have been contacted prior to any use of force. Ms. Perez was a mother of four and originally from Guatemala.