Whitestown Homeowner Charged in Fatal Shooting of House Cleaner

In a tragic incident that has shaken the Whitestown community, Curt Andersen, a 62-year-old resident, has been charged with voluntary manslaughter following the fatal shooting of Maria Florinda Ríos Pérez de Velázquez, a 32-year-old house cleaner and mother of four.

 

The incident occurred on November 5, 2025, when Ríos Pérez de Velázquez and her husband mistakenly arrived at Andersen's home on Maize Lane, believing it to be their scheduled cleaning location. While attempting to unlock the door with a work-issued key, Andersen fired a single shot through the closed door, striking Ríos Pérez de Velázquez in the head and resulting in her death.

 

Boone County Prosecutor Kent Eastwood announced the charges on November 17, stating that Andersen's actions did not fall under Indiana's "Stand Your Ground" law, which permits the use of deadly force in cases of unlawful entry. Eastwood emphasized that Andersen's decision to shoot through a closed door without prior warning was not justified under the statute.

 

In response, Andersen's defense attorney, Guy Relford, a prominent Second Amendment lawyer, expressed disagreement with the charges. He stated on social media that he looks forward to proving in court that Andersen's actions were fully justified under Indiana's self-defense laws.

 

The Whitestown community has been deeply affected by the incident. A vigil held outside the Boone County Prosecutor's Office drew over 200 attendees, all demanding justice for Ríos Pérez de Velázquez. The gathering highlighted the community's call for accountability and raised awareness about the implications of gun violence.

 

As the legal proceedings continue, the case has sparked broader discussions about the application of self-defense laws and the responsibilities of homeowners when confronted with perceived threats. The community remains united in seeking justice for Maria and her family.