Whitestown, IN — A tragic mix-up in Boone County turned deadly when a 32-year-old cleaning lady was shot and killed after mistakenly arriving at the wrong home for an appointment. Authorities say Maria Florinda Rios Perez, a mother of four originally from Guatemala, was fatally shot by a homeowner who believed someone was trying to break in.
Whitestown police responded to a report of a possible home invasion on Wednesday afternoon but later determined that the situation had been a misunderstanding.
Mistaken Arrival Leads to Fatal Shooting
According to investigators, Rios Perez and her husband, Mauricio Velásquez, had arrived for a scheduled house-cleaning job but accidentally went to the wrong address. Police said that when they approached the home, the homeowner fired a shot through the door, hitting Perez.
Velásquez held his wife in his arms as she died on the front porch. He later spoke to local reporters, saying the homeowner acted too quickly.
“They should’ve called the police first instead of just shooting out of nowhere like that,” Velásquez told WTTV.
He described the devastating moment of realizing his wife was gone.
“Seeing my wife in my arms, already lifeless, covered in blood, I felt like they tore everything from me,” he told Telemundo.
Police Investigation and Legal Review
Whitestown police said the facts did not support a home invasion, confirming that the couple were members of a cleaning crew who had simply gone to the wrong address.
“It was later determined that the individuals attempting to enter the home were members of a cleaning crew who had mistakenly arrived at the wrong address,” the Whitestown Police Department stated in a post.
The department added, “The loss of life is always a profound tragedy, and our hearts and prayers go out to all those affected.”
The case has been submitted to the Boone County Prosecutor’s Office for review to determine whether criminal charges will be filed against the homeowner. The manner of death has been ruled a homicide, but prosecutors say the state’s stand-your-ground law could complicate potential charges.
Boone County Prosecutor Kent Eastwood told The Indianapolis Star that the case is “complex because of language in the law” and requires a careful legal review.
Community Mourning and Family’s Plea for Justice
Perez’s death has left her family and the Whitestown community reeling. Her obituary described her as a woman filled with love and kindness.
“Maria was a devoted wife, a loving mother, a caring sister, and a cherished daughter,” her obituary read. “She was known for her beautiful spirit, her kindness toward others, and the love she poured into her family every single day.”
Her husband is now calling for justice, saying his wife’s death was senseless and avoidable.
“She didn’t deserve this. We just want justice for what happened,” Velásquez said at a memorial service.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have not released the homeowner’s identity, citing safety and privacy concerns. Authorities described the case as “complex, delicate, and evolving.”
According to Fox News, investigators continue to review evidence and statements from those involved. The prosecutor’s office has not set a timeline for its decision on possible charges.
Whitestown Police extended their condolences, writing, “We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to her family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
The incident has reignited debate in Indiana over stand-your-ground laws and the dangers of misjudged home-defense shootings.
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