Man Sentenced to 62 Years for Fatal Shooting

A man has been sentenced to 62 years in prison for a fatal shooting that occurred on Indianapolis' west side in February 2023.

Troy Briscoe was found guilty of murder following a bifurcated court trial in April and was sentenced by the Marion County Prosecutor's Office. The victim, Sabrina Cowen, died an hour after being taken to the hospital due to her gunshot wound.

"This case exemplifies our prosecutors' unwavering commitment to taking the most complex cases to trial on behalf of victims and their families," said Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears. "Regardless of obstacles, we are dedicated to ensuring victims have their story heard."

According to investigators, Briscoe entered Cowen's residence just before 10pm on February 13th, where a struggle ensued, leaving signs of a violent altercation including broken fingernails, a shell casing, and glasses on the floor.

Nearby residents reported hearing a "boom" noise followed by screaming at around 9:30pm. Home security footage from a nearby residence provided crucial evidence, showing Briscoe entering the residence prior to the shooting, and fleeing the scene shortly after the murder occurred.

Investigators were able to determine that Briscoe's cellphone location data placed him near the crime scene before, during, and briefly after the murder. Additionally, Briscoe's DNA was found on multiple beer bottles and a cigarette bud at the scene.

Multiple witnesses came forward, describing Briscoe as having erratic and threatening behavior, and revealing that he had a violent relationship with Cowen. Prior to the murder, Cowen indicated she was done with him, and many witnesses described her as being in fear of Briscoe.