An Indiana man, Steeve Chavannes, 47, has been arrested for the murder of a woman, Evelie LaCroix, after allegedly shooting her during an attempt to end their relationship. Chavannes, who later tried to kill himself, is now facing multiple charges, including murder, burglary, and domestic battery for violating a protective order.
Events Leading to the Shooting
On June 28, Chavannes drove to LaCroix’s home, with a friend accompanying him. LaCroix had previously asked him to leave her house, and there was an active order of protection against him.
Chavannes, however, claimed he was there to collect his belongings. Upon arriving at the house, LaCroix’s daughter told Chavannes’ friend that her mother was at work, though this was later revealed to be a lie. LaCroix was actually at home, sleeping before her shift.
As Chavannes’ friend drove away, he became concerned that Chavannes might return to the house to confront LaCroix. When checking his car, the friend noticed that his gun was missing and suspected that Chavannes had taken it while speaking with LaCroix’s daughter.
The Shooting Incident
LaCroix’s daughter soon heard a series of gunshots coming from her mother’s bedroom, followed by the sound of her mother screaming. After the third gunshot, the screaming stopped.
When she went to investigate, she found the bedroom door locked and could not enter. She then saw Chavannes and a large amount of blood but reported that neither person appeared to be moving.
LaCroix was later found dead from gunshot wounds, and Chavannes was found near the front door, still conscious. The gun he had taken from his friend was found near LaCroix’s body.
Police arrived and confirmed the crime scene, which included blood spattered throughout the living room and kitchen, as well as broken glass from the patio door.
Chavannes’ Violent History and Previous Incidents
LaCroix’s daughter revealed that her mother had experienced several violent encounters with Chavannes. In one incident, he had even stabbed her with a screwdriver.
Despite these violent acts, LaCroix had allowed Chavannes back into her home after he apologized. In June, Chavannes was caught hiding near LaCroix’s home, which led to the protective order against him.
Chavannes’ Confession
After recovering in the hospital from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, Chavannes was interviewed by police. He was read his Miranda rights and reportedly confessed to shooting LaCroix, saying he “shot my wife” and that his reason for doing so was because she “disrespected” him. Chavannes also admitted that he intended to kill her.
Current Status and Legal Charges
Chavannes remains hospitalized and has been charged with murder, burglary, and domestic battery, specifically for violating the protective order. Authorities continue to investigate the case, and further legal actions will follow as the situation develops.
In this tragic incident, the culmination of Chavannes’ violent history and apparent obsession with LaCroix led to an irreparable loss. His prior abusive actions, including a stabbing, had already led to a legal separation.
Yet, his inability to accept rejection resulted in fatal consequences. This case highlights the dangerous impacts of unchecked domestic violence and the need for stronger protection and intervention for victims.
