A fatal shooting at a Mishawaka hotel resulted in the death of a man after the shooter, Justin Bonham, claimed self-defense. Police found drugs in the room, leading to additional charges.

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MISHAWAKA, IN (1-minute read) — A deadly shooting at the Best Western hotel in Mishawaka earlier this week has raised questions about self-defense and criminal activity. Police say 37-year-old Justin Bonham of South Bend admitted to shooting 44-year-old Anthony Korolis out of fear for his life. Korolis was discovered near the entrance of the hotel room with a separate firearm in his hand.

Bonham told authorities he acted in self-defense, but the situation grew more complicated when police found methamphetamine and other controlled substances in the hotel room. Bonham was promptly arrested on multiple drug-related charges and remains in custody as the investigation continues.

Although self-defense laws in Indiana protect individuals who reasonably believe their lives are in imminent danger, the presence of drugs complicates Bonham’s case. Investigators will likely examine whether Bonham’s actions were justifiable or influenced by the criminal activities reportedly taking place at the scene. The discovery of the second firearm in Korolis’s possession adds a layer of complexity, as it suggests that both men were armed during the encounter.

The incident also highlights the dangers of firearms in environments where illicit substances are present. Police continue to piece together the events leading up to the shooting while determining the legal consequences Bonham might face.

Safety Tip: Always ensure that firearms are stored safely and are used responsibly. Avoid situations where criminal activity or substances could escalate risks, and always be aware of local self-defense laws.