A woman in Fort Wayne, Indiana, was shot by her ex-boyfriend early Monday morning, but managed to escape and call for help. The suspect, Jermaine Whitsett, was arrested later that day and faces multiple charges, including attempted murder.

A Violent Encounter

The shooting happened around 4:15 a.m. on Monday, January 22, 2024, in the 1200 block of Nuttman Avenue. According to the police, the victim and Whitsett had a previous relationship, but had broken up recently. Whitsett allegedly came to the victim’s home and confronted her, then shot her with a handgun. The victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was able to flee from the scene. She called 911 and was taken to a hospital for treatment.

A Swift Arrest

Whitsett did not remain at the scene after the shooting, but was located by the police later that day. He was arrested during a traffic stop near the intersection of Colerick and Winter streets around 12:45 p.m. He was found to be in possession of a handgun, which was seized by the police. Whitsett was booked into the Allen County Jail and preliminarily charged with domestic battery with a deadly weapon, attempted murder, and unlawful carrying of a handgun. He is being held without bond pending a court appearance.

A Serious Crime

The shooting is being investigated by the Fort Wayne Police Department and the Allen County Prosecutor’s Office. Attempted murder is a Level 1 felony in Indiana, which carries a sentence of 20 to 40 years in prison. Domestic battery with a deadly weapon and unlawful carrying of a handgun are both Level 4 felonies, which carry a sentence of 2 to 12 years in prison each. Whitsett could face up to 64 years in prison if convicted of all charges.

The victim’s name has not been released by the authorities, but she is expected to recover from her injuries. The police have not disclosed the motive for the shooting, but have urged anyone who is in an abusive relationship to seek help and support. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233.