CASPER, Wyo. — On the morning of April 28, 2025, a tragic and complex police-involved shooting unfolded in Casper, leaving the community reeling. Jody Renee Cobia, a 45-year-old woman, was fatally shot by police officers after reportedly luring them to her home with a false claim of a burglary, only to confront them with a weapon upon their arrival.
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A Disturbing 911 Call
The incident began at 12:01 a.m., when Cobia made a 911 call alleging that a “burglar dressed in all black” was breaking into her home at 1623 S. McKinley Street. She described the intruder as “armed and dangerous” and urgently requested police assistance.
When officers arrived at the scene, they were met by Cobia herself, dressed as the supposed burglar and armed with a weapon. Accompanied by a large dog, Cobia reportedly shouted at the officers before raising the weapon toward them, prompting a response from law enforcement.
Response and Tragic Outcome
“Officers responded to the threat with appropriate force,” said Captain Jeremy Tremel of the Casper Police Department in a statement. “In response to being threatened with a firearm, officers discharged their weapons.”
Following the shooting, a search of the home found no evidence of a burglary. Authorities now believe that Cobia may have deliberately fabricated the report to provoke a police response. Investigators are also examining the emotional toll Cobia had been under in the weeks leading up to the incident, including a recent divorce filing and the removal of her children from the home.
Ongoing Investigation
The officers involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave, as is standard procedure in officer-involved shootings. The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) has taken over the case, and while the investigation is ongoing, authorities have yet to release further details.
Police Chief Shane Chaney called for patience from the community, acknowledging the devastating impact the incident has had on both the families involved and the broader community. “We understand this has deeply impacted our community and the families directly involved,” Chaney stated. “We are committed to providing transparency and sharing more information as the investigation progresses.”
Remembering Jody Renee Cobia
In the aftermath of her tragic death, an obituary shared by the Casper Newcomer Funeral Homes reflected on Cobia’s vibrant personality and commitment to her family. The obituary described her as a woman with a “playful personality” and “unwavering dedication to her family.” “She was always ready to bring laughter into ordinary moments, leaving a lasting impact on those around her,” the obituary said.
Cobia is survived by her husband, Aren, their four children, and her father and brother. Her death, alongside the peculiar circumstances of the incident, has left many in the community grappling with deep sorrow and unanswered questions.
Investigation and Next Steps
As the investigation into Cobia’s death continues, any determination regarding the officers’ use of force will ultimately be decided by the Natrona County District Attorney’s Office once the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation concludes its inquiry.
The community continues to mourn, and many are left seeking clarity regarding the tragic events that unfolded in the early morning hours of April 28.