A 47-year-old Indiana man, Steeve Chavannes, is facing serious charges, including murder, after allegedly fatally shooting his estranged wife, Evelie LaCroix, during a violent confrontation at her home. The tragic incident occurred on June 28 and has left LaCroix’s family and the community in shock.
The Tragic Shooting
According to police, Chavannes had been previously kicked out of LaCroix’s home and was under a protective order preventing him from contacting her. However, he decided to visit her home, claiming he wanted to retrieve some of his belongings.
After arriving at the house with a friend, Chavannes was told by LaCroix’s daughter that her mother was at work. However, LaCroix’s daughter later admitted she lied about her mother’s whereabouts.
As Chavannes and his friend left the home, he asked his friend to stop the car so he could walk back to the house. The friend later realized that his gun, which he had kept in his car trunk, was missing, and suspected that Chavannes had taken it when he was speaking to LaCroix’s daughter.
The Shooting and Aftermath
Chavannes returned to LaCroix’s home, and it was then that the shooting occurred. LaCroix’s daughter reported hearing three gunshots, followed by her mother’s screams. She went to her mother’s bedroom, only to find the door locked. She saw Chavannes and blood inside the room, and both he and her mother were unresponsive.
When police arrived, LaCroix was found dead from gunshot wounds, and Chavannes was still conscious, near the front door. The gun used in the shooting was found near LaCroix’s body. Chavannes was taken to a hospital with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to his head, which he allegedly attempted after the shooting.
Chavannes’ Alleged Confession
In the hospital, Chavannes was interviewed by police. After being read his Miranda rights, he reportedly told investigators, “I remembered everything.” When asked what had happened, he allegedly said, “I shot my wife” and explained that he did so because “she was disrespecting me.” Chavannes further admitted that his intention was to take LaCroix’s life.
History of Domestic Violence
Police discovered a history of violent incidents between Chavannes and LaCroix. LaCroix’s daughter revealed that Chavannes had previously stabbed her mother with a screwdriver, and despite the violence, LaCroix would often allow him back into her life after he apologized.
In June, Chavannes was caught hiding near LaCroix’s home, which led to the protective order being issued against him.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Steeve Chavannes remains hospitalized but has been charged with murder, burglary, and domestic battery in violation of a protective order. His actions have left LaCroix’s family grieving the loss of a loved one who had tried to protect herself from further harm.
Chavannes’ case highlights the dangers of domestic abuse and the devastating outcomes that can arise from controlling and violent relationships.
The tragic murder of Evelie LaCroix is a stark reminder of the dangers of domestic violence. Despite having an order of protection, LaCroix’s attempts to escape the abuse ultimately led to her death. Chavannes’ actions have not only taken a life but have also left behind a family deeply affected by the violence and trauma.
