A Kokomo woman is facing an attempted murder charge after police say a U.S. Postal Service letter carrier was stabbed multiple times Thursday in the city’s downtown. The attack happened in the 800 block of North Main Street, and the suspect allegedly took off in a tan 2004 Buick before officers caught up with her after a crash. Investigators say they have opened the case as attempted murder and assigned it case number KPD-26-01193 as they continue to collect evidence.
What Kokomo Police Say Happened
In a detailed Facebook post, the Kokomo Police Department said officers were dispatched after reports that a letter carrier had been stabbed and suffered multiple wounds. Medics from local hospitals responded to the scene to treat the injured carrier.
According to police, the suspect, identified as 62-year-old Laura Fortson of Kokomo, left the area in a tan 2004 Buick. Officers say the vehicle became disabled after crashing into another vehicle at Markland Avenue and Ohio Street, where Fortson was taken into custody. The post lists attempted murder and several related felonies among the charges and notes that more counts are expected as the investigation continues, according to the Kokomo Police Department.
Postal Inspectors and Local Resources
Federal postal inspectors are assisting local investigators. The United States Postal Inspection Service states on its website that it investigates crimes targeting postal employees and the mail, and this case falls squarely into that lane.
Local first responders and medics were at the scene to provide medical care and support the investigation, and the Howard County Sheriff’s Office also assisted, according to official updates.
Charges, Custody and Next Steps
Kokomo police say Fortson was booked on attempted murder, a Level 1 felony, along with multiple related counts that include aggravated battery, intimidation with a deadly weapon, criminal recklessness, possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia. Investigators expect additional charges connected to the crashes as they continue processing evidence, according to the Kokomo Police Department.
Anyone with information that might help the investigation can submit tips anonymously to Central Indiana Crime Stoppers at 1-800-262-TIPS. The Kokomo Police Department also provided its hotline and a direct investigator contact in its post for people who may have more detailed information about the incident.
