Hannah Aberegg, a 25-year-old mother of two who gained fame on the Netflix docuseries Girls Incarcerated, has tragically died after being shot by police in South Bend, Indiana, on May 6, 2026.
Details of the Incident
According to authorities, Aberegg's mother requested a welfare check due to a medical episode. When officers arrived at a petrol station, Aberegg allegedly produced a handgun, prompting a South Bend officer to open fire. The stand-off involved South Bend Police and St. Joseph County Police, with Indiana State Police taking over the investigation after the fatal shooting.
Sergeant Ted Bohner of Indiana State Police stated, "The Indiana State Police continues to investigate the officer-involved shooting... These investigations typically take several weeks to complete. We do not make determinations; that is the role of the Prosecutor's Office." He added that Aberegg was armed and pulled out the handgun during the interaction.
Family's Heartbreak
Her obituary described her as a devoted mother to Kai'son Aberegg and Ari'Ella Thompson-Aberegg, stating, "Everything she did, every choice she made, was rooted in her love for them." She is survived by her parents, William Aberegg Sr. and Heather Trobaugh, and siblings William Aberegg Jr. and Nevaeh Trobaugh.
The obituary highlighted her open heart, love for tattoos, and simple joys like her dogs and family. "One of her greatest wishes was to swim with dolphins," reflecting her gentle spirit.
Background
Aberegg appeared in season two of Girls Incarcerated, which documents young women in juvenile detention. She had been incarcerated multiple times by age 18 while battling addiction. Her death has sparked discussions about police use of force and mental health crises.
For support, Cruse Bereavement Support offers free help at 0808 808 1677.
