Man arrested in shooting death of woman near Grissom Air Reserve Base

BUNKER HILL, Ind. (WISH) — An 18-year-old man was arrested after an 18-year-old woman died after a shooting Thursday afternoon in a housing area adjacent to Grissom Air Reserve Base, Indiana State Police say.

Hanna Cox, of Bunker Hill, died at the scene.

Jeremiah Smith, of Peru, is facing preliminary charges of involuntary manslaughter, reckless homicide, and pointing a firearm.

Sgt. Tony Slocum of the state police said 911 callers shortly after 3:35 p.m. Thursday reported a possible person shot in a parked car in the 2700 block of Capehart Street. Officers from Miami County Sheriff’s Department and the Maconaquah Police Department arrived to find Cox shot.

“The investigation led officers to Smith’s nearby home,” said a news release issued late Thursday night. “He was taken into custody without incident. Cox had been visiting Smith. Evidence revealed he was allegedly inside the parked car when Cox was shot.”

Statement

“It is with deep sorrow that Maconaquah School Corporation acknowledges the passing of Hanna Cox, one of our seniors at Maconaquah High School.

“This unexpected tragedy brings grief to so many, and as we come together to support one another, we ask our community to give the family space to grieve through this tragic event.

“Counselors will be available on all campuses tomorrow, and we will have extra staff available on campus at Maconaquah High School. If there is a two hour delay or shift to eLearning, counselors will be available on campus starting at 11AM for parents to bring any student in need of counseling services. We encourage all students and staff affected by this tragedy to reach out to one of our counselors for support.

“Building principals will be available by phone and email this evening as a source to help guide students, staff, and parents through this devastating loss.”

Maconaquah Schools on Facebook, 8:22 p.m. Feb. 24, 2022