Switzerland Co. prosecutor deems homeowner was justified in July shooting

(VEVAY, Ind.) – The Switzerland County homeowner who shot and killed an alleged home intruder this past summer will not face charges.

That conclusion has been made by Switzerland County Prosecutor Ryan Marshall who said the shooting was justified. 

41-year-old Aaron Snyder was allegedly breaking into a home on Searcy Ridge Road on July 21. The home was occupied by a man, woman and two infant children.

The homeowner fatally shot Snyder twice after he entered the home, police said. 

Snyder's body was sent to the Hamilton County Coroner’s Office in Ohio. 

A coroner said his blood levels showed a high level of methamphetamine and amphetamine at the time of his death. 

Marshall says his office determined that the homeowner had valid legal claims self-defense, defense of at least three other people, 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,” Marshall said. 

“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,” he added.