***Please note, I created this GoFundMe for the family after reaching out to them and getting permission. I am a Whitestown resident who cares about people and this tragedy drove me to want to find a way to help them. All proceeds go to the family and they have control as beneficiary. There is another goFundMe set up by the family as well. Thank you for your support and next we seek justice for Maria.

Whitestown, IN — The Whitestown community is in mourning following a heartbreaking tragedy that claimed the life of Maria Florinda Rios Perez, a hardworking mother of four and beloved member of the community. Maria was tragically shot and killed Wednesday morning on Maize Lane after mistakenly arriving at the wrong address for work — a moment of confusion that ended in unimaginable loss.

According to the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, Maria had gone to what she believed was her scheduled cleaning location. Accompanied by her husband, she was simply preparing to begin her day when the tragic incident occurred. Her husband, speaking through a translator, described the horrifying moment they realized they had gone to the wrong home — an innocent mistake that turned a quiet morning into a devastating nightmare.

Maria leaves behind four beautiful children, ranging in age from less than one year old to 17 years old. Her husband, still in shock, said their world has been turned upside down. The family is now navigating unbearable grief as they struggle to understand how such a senseless act could have taken their beloved wife and mother.

Neighbors and community members have expressed overwhelming sadness and disbelief. Many have shared heartfelt messages of condolence, describing Maria as “a hardworking woman who only wanted to take care of her family” and “a gentle soul taken too soon.” Others in the area have rallied to support the family, offering prayers, meals, and donations to help them through this dark time.

Maria Florinda Rios Perez was known by all who met her as a beacon of kindness, humility, and strength. She worked tirelessly to support her loved ones, often taking extra jobs to provide a better life for her children. Friends and coworkers remember her infectious smile, her laughter, and the way she always made time to help others — even when life was hard. Her heart was as big as her dreams for her family.

As law enforcement officials continue their investigation into the shooting, community leaders are urging compassion, understanding, and unity. They stress that Maria’s death is a tragic reminder of how quickly life can change — and of the importance of empathy and patience in everyday interactions.

A candlelight vigil is being planned in Maria’s honor, where friends, neighbors, and strangers alike will gather to remember her life, her love, and her legacy. It will serve as both a memorial and a moment for the community to stand together against senseless violence.

Messages of support continue to flood social media. One tribute read:

“Maria was just doing her job — working hard for her children. She didn’t deserve this. May her beautiful soul rest in peace.”

Maria’s life, though tragically cut short, will forever shine in the memories of those who knew and loved her. Her legacy lives on in her children, in her kindness, and in the love she shared so freely with others.

Rest in peace, Maria Florinda Rios Perez.

Gone far too soon — a devoted mother, loving wife, and beautiful soul whose light will never fade.