Mail delivery to his address had been suspended over an aggressive dog. He confronted the mail carrier about it — and shot her.
The Shooting
On April 27, 2020, Tony Cushingberry confronted postal worker Angela Summers on North Denny Street in Indianapolis after the U.S. Postal Service suspended delivery to his address due to concerns about an aggressive dog. According to court documents, Cushingberry approached her aggressively and followed her onto a neighbor's porch. Summers, fearing for her safety, used pepper spray on him. Cushingberry then drew a handgun and shot her. She collapsed and died at the hospital from a gunshot wound to the chest.
Arrest and Plea
Witnesses saw the confrontation, and police arrested Cushingberry the following day. He later admitted to the shooting, telling investigators he had only intended to scare Summers. He pleaded guilty to second-degree murder.
Sentencing
A judge sentenced Cushingberry to 30 years in federal prison, with a recommendation for the medium-security FCI Greenville facility, and three years of supervised release upon completion of his sentence. The sentencing order included recommendations for mental health and substance abuse treatment, along with vocational and educational programming. He had faced a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
FAQ
Why did Tony Cushingberry confront Angela Summers?
He was upset that mail delivery to his home had been suspended due to concerns about an aggressive dog.
What sentence did Cushingberry receive?
30 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
Did Cushingberry admit to the shooting?
Yes. He told investigators he had only meant to scare Summers, and pleaded guilty to second-degree murder.