Zanesville Woman Charged with Murder in Alleged Home Invasion Shooting
A woman from Zanesville, Ohio, has been charged with murder in connection with an alleged home invasion shooting. The incident took place on August 10 on Sandhurst Drive, where the Zanesville Police Department received a distress call reporting a home invasion and a shooting.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered Deborah Frazier, 35, who had been shot inside the residence. Frazier was immediately provided with medical aid and transported to the Genesis Healthcare System for treatment, where she underwent surgery. Tragically, 66-year-old Thomas Waddell was found dead inside the home.
Following an autopsy conducted by the Licking County Coroner’s Office, it was determined that Waddell had suffered a fatal gunshot wound. Initially, Frazier reported that two masked white males were responsible for the incident and had fled the scene on foot. However, as the investigation unfolded, evidence emerged implicating her in the shooting and revealing that no actual home invasion had occurred.
Detectives from the Zanesville Police Department worked diligently on the case and obtained formal charges through the Muskingum County Prosecutor’s office on August 11, 2023. Frazier now faces two counts of murder, felonious assault, tampering with evidence, and domestic violence charges.
According to the police, it was determined that Frazier had inflicted a gunshot wound upon herself before notifying authorities about the incident. Once Frazier has fully recovered, she will be transferred to the Zanesville City Jail and subsequently arraigned at Zanesville Municipal Court. Her requested bond has been set at $2,000,000.
During the investigation and response to the incident, the Muskingum County Sheriff’s Office, Community Ambulance, and the Zanesville Fire Department provided valuable assistance. To aid in the ongoing investigation, the Zanesville Police Department is urging anyone with information to contact them directly at 740-455-0700 or Detective Bryan Ruff at 740-455-0699.
It is always disheartening when incidents like these occur within our communities. The law enforcement agencies involved have worked tirelessly to bring justice to the situation and ensure the safety of residents. As the case progresses, it is important to remember the principle of innocent until proven guilty. The Judicial system will conduct a fair and unbiased investigation, ultimately affirming or rebutting the charges against Frazier.
Our thoughts go out to the families affected by this tragedy, as they navigate this difficult time. The local community is encouraged to come together and support one another during this challenging period.
