An Iowa woman is accused of shooting a man to death from behind while the two were target practicing in a secluded wooded area, later telling authorities it was “either him or me,” according to officials and local reports.
Ashley Ruhland, 35, has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of 49-year-old Justin Emmick on his rural 30-acre property in Plymouth County, the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office said.
Ruhland, who is from Sioux City, had been staying temporarily with Emmick at the rugged property, which can only be reached by all-terrain vehicles, according to a criminal complaint obtained by KCAU. The complaint also noted that she had a protection order against him.
Investigators said the two were in a remote corner of the property for target shooting when Ruhland allegedly fired at Emmick twice, striking him once in the back and once in the head, according to the complaint.
After the shooting, Ruhland called 911 and reported what had happened, telling law enforcement she had acted in self-defense, authorities and the outlet reported.
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The complaint said Ruhland made several statements to investigators, including remarks similar to, “it’s got to be now, or it’s going to be me,” “it was either him or me,” and “I didn’t want him to suffer.”
Authorities dispute her account, alleging Ruhland had no injuries and that Emmick was shot from behind.
“During the investigation, there was no evidence indicating [Ruhland] was in danger from [Emmick],” the complaint said, according to KTIV. “The bullet wounds show [Emmick] was shot from behind while [Ruhland] was uninjured.”
A lone deputy arrived at a remote area of the acreage and discovered Emmick, who was pronounced dead on the scene, police said.
Ruhland had told family members she wanted a gun for protection, and said Emmick was going to teach her how to shoot, the filing alleged.
It’s unclear what type of relationship Ruhland and Emmick had.
Ruhland was booked into Plymouth County Jail and is being held without bond, cops said.
An investigation remains ongoing.
