Ethan Grasse, 23, from Evanston, Wyoming, faces second-degree murder charges for fatally shooting his father, Michael Grasse, 49, on November 22, 2025, at their home on Granite Drive. He argued self-defense in Uinta County District Court on Tuesday, claiming fear of an intoxicated intruder breaking into his bedroom, but Judge James Kaste denied dismissal while allowing the claim at trial.
Incident Background
The day prior, Michael was heavily drinking and threatening Ethan physically; after a restaurant trip, Ethan blocked his father’s car, leading to a physical fight stopped by Michael’s mother. Ethan left briefly, bought a locking doorknob, returned to find his father passed out, secured keys/phone, and locked his door amid renewed threats around 10 p.m.
Shooting Details
At 3:30 a.m., Ethan awoke to banging, grabbed his .22-caliber handgun without glasses, and fired at least three shots through the door as it was forced open. He called 911 after hearing a moan, claiming he couldn’t identify the intruder clearly and only meant to defend himself; Michael died at Evanston Regional Hospital at 4:22 a.m.
Legal Status
Ethan texted his grandmother warning of self-defense that night and remains in Uinta County Jail; his May 12 trial will test the self-defense argument despite prior arguments and precautions. The case was initially suspicious but proceeded on murder charges.
