Woman Found Guilty of Shooting in Marion County
(Photo: Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office)
On Wednesday, May 22, 2024, a jury found 54-year-old Virginia Lee Hizer guilty of Aggravated Battery with a Firearm following a dramatic trial in which the prosecution presented compelling evidence. This verdict comes nearly two years after Hizer’s arrest on July 8, 2022.
The incident began with a verbal argument between Hizer and the victim, who is wheelchair-bound. Earlier that day, Hizer had consumed an entire bottle of wine, escalating tensions. During the altercation, Hizer retrieved a firearm from a bedroom dresser, unzipped its case in the living room, aimed at the victim, and fired. The bullet struck the victim in the leg and then shattered a glass sliding door.
Following the shooting, Hizer fled the scene in her vehicle. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) responded quickly, and the victim provided a detailed account of the events. The following morning, Hizer drove past the crime scene, where deputies identified and apprehended her. During questioning, Hizer claimed she was unaware she had shot the victim and stated the gun discharged accidentally.
Hizer’s defense did not sway the jury, who found her guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. She now faces a minimum-mandatory sentence of 25 years.
“The defendant’s actions in this case were reckless and dangerous,” said Bill Gladson, Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney. “The jurors found the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, and I would like to thank them all for their civic service.”
