CASPER, Wyo. — May 7, 2025 — A tragic and complex police-involved shooting in Casper has left the community in shock after Jody Renee Cobia, a 45-year-old woman, was fatally shot by officers in the early hours of April 28. According to new details released by the Casper Police Department, it appears that Cobia intentionally lured officers to her home with a false report of a burglary, only to confront them with a weapon when they arrived.
The incident began at 12:01 a.m. when Cobia made a 911 call, claiming 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 asked officers to respond. However, when police arrived at the residence, they were met at the door by Cobia herself, dressed as the reported burglar and holding a weapon. Accompanying her was a large dog. According to Captain Jeremy Tremel of the Casper Police Department, Cobia shouted at the officers before raising her weapon toward them. Fearing for their safety, the officers fired, striking Cobia.
“Officers responded to the threat with appropriate force,” Capt. Tremel stated in a Wednesday update. “In response to being threatened with a firearm, officers discharged their weapons.”
Despite an immediate search of the home, no evidence of a burglary was found, raising further questions about Cobia’s actions. Authorities now believe that Cobia may have intentionally fabricated the story to provoke a police response. The investigation revealed that Cobia had recently faced significant personal challenges, including being served divorce papers on April 14 and having her children removed from the home before the incident.
The officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave, as per standard procedure in officer-involved shootings. The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) has taken over the case, and while details remain scarce, officials have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing.
The Casper Police Department is calling for patience from the community, acknowledging the emotional toll the incident has had on everyone involved. “We understand this has deeply impacted our community and the families directly involved,” said Police Chief Shane Chaney. “We are committed to providing transparency and sharing more information as the investigation progresses.”
In the aftermath of her death, an obituary released by the Casper Newcomer Funeral Homes described Cobia as a woman with a “vibrant spirit and unwavering dedication to her family.” “Jody’s playful personality shone brightly through her mildly laidback demeanor and ever-present wit,” the obituary said. “She was always ready to bring laughter into ordinary moments, leaving a lasting impact on those around her.”
Cobia is survived by her husband, Aren, and their four children, as well as her father and brother. Her death, coupled with the circumstances surrounding it, has left many in the community grappling with unanswered questions and sorrow.
The case is still under investigation, and any determination regarding the officers’ use of force will ultimately be decided by the Natrona County District Attorney’s Office after the DCI concludes its work.
