Lafayette, Indiana, January 24, 2026
In Lafayette, Indiana, five individuals have been arrested in relation to the shooting of Tippecanoe County Superior Court Judge Steven Meyer and his wife, Kimberly. The incident occurred when an assailant opened fire at their home, injuring both victims, who are currently in stable condition. Those arrested face various charges, including attempted murder and conspiracy, in connection to an alleged plot by motorcycle club members.
Lafayette, Indiana – Five Arrested in Shooting of Indiana Judge and Wife
Five individuals have been arrested in connection with the shooting of Tippecanoe County Superior Court Judge Steven Meyer and his wife, Kimberly, at their Lafayette home on January 18, 2026. The attack left both victims injured but in stable condition.
Details of the Incident
At approximately 2:15 p.m. on January 18, an assailant approached the Meyers’ residence and fired gunshots through the front door, injuring both Judge Meyer and his wife. The shooter reportedly claimed to be searching for a lost dog before opening fire. Both victims were transported to a hospital and are currently in stable condition.
Arrests and Charges
Following an extensive investigation, authorities arrested five individuals in connection with the shooting:
- Raylen Ferguson, 38, of Lexington, Kentucky
- Thomas Moss, 43, of Lafayette, Indiana
- Blake Smith, 32, of Lafayette, Indiana
- Amanda Milsap, 45, of Lafayette, Indiana
- Zenada Greer, 61, of Lexington, Kentucky
Ferguson, Moss, and Smith face charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, aggravated battery, and intimidation with a deadly weapon, with gang and firearm enhancements. Moss and Smith are also listed as “habitual offenders.” Milsap is charged with bribery and obstruction of justice, while Greer faces charges of assisting a criminal and obstruction of justice.
Background and Investigation
Investigators allege that members of the Phantom Motorcycle Club and the Vice Lords street gang conspired to assassinate Judge Meyer to derail a domestic abuse trial against Moss, a member of the motorcycle club. Moss had pending charges in Judge Meyer’s court, including assault and firearm offenses. Surveillance footage, discarded evidence, and a tip from a restaurant played key roles in the investigation, leading to the arrests.
The case highlights rising threats against judges, with over 150 judges reporting threats in a 2023 survey and significant increases in threats locally and federally in recent years. Indiana Chief Justice Loretta Rush confirmed a special judge will be appointed to preside over the cases.
Community Response
Judge Meyer expressed gratitude for the support from the community, court colleagues, and law enforcement. He emphasized his confidence in the judicial system and the importance of peacefully resolving disputes. The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, Indiana State Police, and police departments in Lexington, Kentucky, and Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened during the shooting of Judge Steven Meyer and his wife?
On January 18, 2026, an assailant approached the Meyers’ residence in Lafayette, Indiana, and fired gunshots through the front door, injuring both Judge Steven Meyer and his wife, Kimberly. The shooter claimed to be searching for a lost dog before opening fire. Both victims were transported to a hospital and are currently in stable condition.
Who has been arrested in connection with the shooting?
Five individuals have been arrested: Raylen Ferguson, 38, of Lexington, Kentucky; Thomas Moss, 43, of Lafayette, Indiana; Blake Smith, 32, of Lafayette, Indiana; Amanda Milsap, 45, of Lafayette, Indiana; and Zenada Greer, 61, of Lexington, Kentucky. Ferguson, Moss, and Smith face charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, aggravated battery, and intimidation with a deadly weapon, with gang and firearm enhancements. Moss and Smith are also listed as “habitual offenders.” Milsap is charged with bribery and obstruction of justice, while Greer faces charges of assisting a criminal and obstruction of justice.
What is the background of the individuals involved?
Investigators allege that members of the Phantom Motorcycle Club and the Vice Lords street gang conspired to assassinate Judge Meyer to derail a domestic abuse trial against Moss, a member of the motorcycle club. Moss had pending charges in Judge Meyer’s court, including assault and firearm offenses. Surveillance footage, discarded evidence, and a tip from a restaurant played key roles in the investigation, leading to the arrests.
What is the community’s response to the incident?
Judge Meyer expressed gratitude for the support from the community, court colleagues, and law enforcement. He emphasized his confidence in the judicial system and the importance of peacefully resolving disputes. The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, Indiana State Police, and police departments in Lexington, Kentucky, and Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Lafayette, Indiana |
| Victims | Judge Steven Meyer and his wife, Kimberly Meyer |
| Date of Incident | January 18, 2026 |
| Charges Against Arrested Individuals | Attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, aggravated battery, intimidation with a deadly weapon, bribery, obstruction of justice, assisting a criminal |
| Investigating Agencies | FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, Indiana State Police, police departments in Lexington, Kentucky, and Allentown, Pennsylvania |
| Community Response | Support from community, court colleagues, and law enforcement; emphasis on confidence in the judicial system and peaceful dispute resolution |
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