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.
