Coatesville standoff ends in arrest

Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at 8:09 AM

By Paul Gable

A Coatesville man found himself behind bars after a hostage situation and evasion of authorities.

According to court documents, Eric Auen faces a list of charges after allegedly holding a woman and 5 year old against their will.

Auen has been charged with the following:

Criminal confinement with a deadly weapon, a Level 3 felony

Intimidation, a Level 5 felony

Battery resulting in bodily injury, a Level 5 felony

Unlawful carrying of a handgun, a Level 5 felony

Strangulation, a Level 6 felony

Pointing a firearm at another, a Level 6 felony

Two counts of domestic battery, a Level 6 felony

Hendricks County deputies were dispatched to a residence after receiving a call stating a woman was being held hostage by a man who was "intoxicated, violent and armed with a handgun. "

Auen fled the scene after deputies arrivedbut was located a short time later.

Deputies noted the woman had lacerations to her legs and arms, as well as swelling and bruising around her neck and face. The victim told police her and Auen got in an argument that turned violent, as she was strangled by Auen, who, allegedly threatened to kill her. The victim was able to escape and made her way to a friend's house.

The juvenile also told police they were thrown by Auen.