Iowa woman charged with first-degree murder after shooting man during target practice
A 35-year-old Iowa woman has been arrested on first-degree murder charges for allegedly shooting a 49-year-old man from behind while they were practicing firearms on his remote property.
The Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office alleges that Ashley Ruhland, 35, shot and killed Justin Emmick, 49, during a target-shooting session on Emmick’s remote, ATV-only property. According to the complaint, Ruhland fired twice, hitting Emmick from behind and in the head, then reported the incident to police, asserting she acted to protect herself. Law enforcement officials say the forensic evidence shows Emmick was shot from behind while Ruhland sustained no injuries, and they found no indication she faced any threat.
A protection order had previously been filed against Emmick, and Ruhland had expressed a desire for a firearm for personal safety. She was booked into Plymouth County Jail and is being detained without bond pending further proceedings.
Why it matters
The case highlights concerns about firearm safety and self-defense claims in rural settings.
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