A quiet Sunday afternoon shattered for Judge Steven Meyer and his wife, Kimberly, when gunfire erupted at their Lafayette home. The couple was targeted in a brazen shooting, leaving the community reeling and authorities scrambling for answers.
Police swiftly arrested five individuals in connection with the attack: Thomas Moss, Blake Smith, Amanda Milsap, Raylen Ferguson, and Zenada Greer. The timing of the shooting is particularly unsettling, as Moss was due to stand trial in Judge Meyer’s courtroom just days later.
Dispatch audio reveals a chilling detail: before opening fire through the door, the assailant allegedly announced, “We have your dog.” This unsettling statement adds a layer of calculated cruelty to the already shocking event.
Investigators quickly focused on Blake Smith, discovering he had recently purchased a firearm matching the one used in the shooting. A partial serial number provided a crucial lead in the investigation.
The investigation uncovered connections between the suspects and alleged gang activity. Moss is identified as a “high-ranking member” of the Indiana chapter of the Phantom Motorcycle Club, with prior ties to the Vice Lord gang. Smith is also reportedly affiliated with the Phantom Motorcycle Club.
Court records show both Smith and Moss had pending cases before Judge Meyer. Moss was scheduled for a jury trial on charges stemming back to 2024, adding a potential motive to the attack.
The charges against Moss paint a disturbing picture of alleged domestic violence. In June 2024, he faced felony counts of domestic battery, unlawful possession of a firearm, intimidation, and criminal recklessness.
Court documents detail harrowing accounts from Moss’s ex-wife, alleging he physically assaulted her with a broomstick and threatened further harm if she didn’t obey his commands. She also claimed he referred to her as a “slave” and threatened to hit her in the head.
Prior incidents involving Moss and his ex-wife reveal a pattern of alleged violence and intimidation. In 2022, she reported he fired shots into the floor during an argument, leaving bullet holes in their home.
The investigation took another turn with allegations of witness tampering. Moss’s ex-girlfriend claimed Amanda Milsap offered her $10,000, on behalf of Moss and the gang, to refrain from testifying in the upcoming trial.
Police records reveal Moss has a substantial criminal history, including convictions for battery resulting in serious bodily injury, criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon, and criminal mischief. This history underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential danger he posed.
Fortunately, Judge and Mrs. Meyer are currently in stable condition, recovering from their injuries. The community now waits for justice as the investigation continues to unfold.
