Trial rescheduled for Middletown woman charged in murder of ex-husband

A trial scheduled to begin Monday for a Middletown woman accused of killing her ex-husband has been continued until June.

Dawn Shearer, 48, of Ellis Way, is charged with murder and felonious assault for allegedly fatally shooting Anthony “Tony” Shearer on Feb. 6.

‘SHE GOT TO THE GUN FIRST’: Lawyer claims struggle before fatal shooting

Last week, defense attorney Jason Phillabaum said Shearer would not waive her right to a speedy trial, meaning she had to be tried 90 days from arrest.

She was arrested by Middletown Police minutes after calling 911 and saying that she had shot her ex-husband. She was indicted last week by a Butler County grand jury.

The defense attorney also said experts would testify at trial that Shearer had been abused.

But after receiving 700 pages of evidence just a few days before trial, Phillabaum said a continuance was needed to review the discovery.

Butler County Common Pleas Judge Jennifer McElfresh granted the defense’s motion for a continuance and set a new trial date of June 19.

FAMILY REACTS: Abuse allegation a shock

Phillabaum said Shearer, a licensed concealed carry holder, acted in self-defense.

He said Shearer was chased outside the home on the night of the fatal shooting and she couldn’t “escape” because her ex-husband’s van was blocking her car in the driveway.

Tanya Shearer, Tony’s sister-in-law, previously said she never heard or saw any type of abuse.

“I am so shocked at this,” she said. “Tony was a great guy, very loving and kid-friendly. My children loved their uncle Tony.”

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