A man seeking revenge for the murder of his great-grandson was involved in a fatal shootout with a deputy outside a courthouse in Indiana on Tuesday, as confirmed by family members and officials.
Mark Voter, aged 65, arrived at the Hendrick County Courthouse around 12:55 PM, reportedly with the intention of killing Sudni Pettis. Pettis has been accused of causing the fiery car crash that killed Voter’s young grandson during a police pursuit earlier this year in February.
Pettis, 25, allegedly attempted to evade arrest by driving a stolen Honda Civic, which collided with a Ford Explorer carrying a three-year-old named Ares and a two-month-old infant, Iris.
Both children suffered severe burns when the Explorer exploded following the crash. Tragically, Iris, who had just left a doctor’s appointment, died at the scene while Ares was rescued from the flames.
He was taken to the hospital with extensive injuries but succumbed a few days later.
At the time, Pettis was scheduled for a court appearance regarding charges of vehicular manslaughter, but Voter was unaware that the hearing had been postponed.
As authorities began transporting prisoners, Voter was found leaning against a wall near the court. Reports state that he approached the deputies and fired at least one shot. However, although his shot did not hit anyone, two deputies—Zachary Emmitt and Nathan Phillips—returned fire, killing Voter on the spot.
In response to a recent tragedy, Voter had expressed deep grief, reflecting on how Ares had impacted his life. He had shared that it felt like Ares had “buried” him instead of the other way around.
Neighbors indicated that they suspected Voter had been contemplating revenge for some time. Conversations with local residents revealed that Voter had been vocal about wanting to confront Pettis.
In light of the incident, the prosecutor has requested that future court hearings for Pettis be conducted remotely, arguing that allowing public access to the court dates could create opportunities for vigilante actions.
The Indiana State Police are investigating the shooting upon the request of the Hendricks County Sheriff. Surveillance footage in the area has documented the events, while the deputies involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave during the inquiry.
