Indianapolis Police Make Arrest in Connection with Two Fatal Stabbings

Police have arrested and charged 30-year-old David Hiner in the deaths of Shannon Lassere, 58, and Marianne Weis, 52. The two women were found close to each other, fatally stabbed on the city’s far east side, their deaths occurring within days of each other, sparking a comprehensive investigation by local authorities.

The Investigation and Arrest

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department disclosed that Lassere and Weis’ bodies were discovered around 150 yards apart. Lassere was found in a parking lot on January 27, a day after she was killed, and Weis was found behind a business on February 1, following her death on January 31. Both women suffered multiple sharp force injuries, indicating a violent struggle.

Interim Chief Chris Bailey described the murders as “brutal and evil,” underscoring the violence of the acts. The investigation led to the arrest of Hiner, whose injuries and presence in video footage near the crime scenes became crucial evidence in the case. The diligent work of the detectives, combined with forensic testing, played a pivotal role in linking Hiner to the murders, resulting in his arrest on an unrelated probation violation before murder charges were officially filed.

The investigation gathered momentum with the recovery of blood evidence on Hiner’s shoe, which matched the DNA of both victims. This, along with video surveillance from nearby businesses and the evidence of the victims’ struggle, helped authorities piece together the events leading to their deaths. The absence of a recovered weapon and the investigation’s ongoing nature highlights the case’s complexity and the meticulous efforts of law enforcement to ensure justice.

The Victims and Suspect

Investigators believe Hiner was acquainted with the second victim, Weis, but have found no connection to Lassere. The lack of a clear motive adds to the mystery of the case, with officials vowing to continue their investigation to understand the circumstances and reasons behind these tragic events fully. Hiner, now facing two counts of murder, remains in custody, with legal representation and further details about his defense yet to emerge.

The arrest in the fatal stabbings of Shannon Lassere and Marianne Weis brings a measure of relief to the Indianapolis community, though many questions remain unanswered. As the case progresses, law enforcement officials are committed to uncovering the full story behind these heinous crimes, ensuring that justice is served for the victims and their families. The tragedy has left a lasting impact on the community, underscoring the importance of vigilance, solidarity, and the relentless pursuit of justice in the face of senseless violence.