05112015 - News Article - Slaying of 'shining star' stuns fellow juvenile center workers

Slaying of 'shining star' stuns fellow juvenile center workers
NWI Times
May 11, 2015
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/porter/slaying-of-shining-star-stuns-fellow-juvenile-center-workers/article_43f3baa3-f024-56c4-8a82-fb3b06dbfe88.html

VALPARAISO | Employees at the Porter County Juvenile Detention Center were grieving Monday after co-worker Brianna Ballor was shot and killed late Saturday by her estranged husband.

"We're numb. We're all numb," said Alison Cox, director of juvenile detention.

Ballor, 31, had worked at the detention center for the past five years, rising from a detention officer to supervisor.

"She was just a shining star and will be greatly missed by all of us," Cox said.

Porter County police said Brianna Ballor was killed in a murder-suicide by Glenn Ballor, 38, following a "domestic situation" at their home in the 100 block of South County Road 75 East. Glenn Ballor shot Brianna with a shotgun and then turned the gun on himself, they said.

The couple left behind a 2-year-old daughter, who was home at the time of the shootings but was unharmed.

"She was a beautiful spirit, wonderful mother," Cox said of Brianna. "Brynn lost a wonderful mother."

Cox said Ballor was often smiling and had a talent working with at-risk children.

Porter Circuit Court Judge Mary Harper said Ballor was well liked and highly respected.

Grief counseling was being offered Monday to staff at the juvenile center, she said.

Harper said it is heartbreaking when victims of domestic violence don't or can't reach out for help.

Among the local resources is The Caring Place, which offers a 24-hour crisis line (464-2128 or 1-800-933-0466) and a website (thecaringplacenwi.org) with lots of resources, said Executive Director Mary Beth Schultz.

Sometimes those in need don't reach out because they are embarrassed or think they will wind up in a shelter, she said. Callers are never told what to do, she added.

Glenn Ballor served for a brief period as an assistant wrestling coach at Portage High School. He left the position about two years ago.

Ballor previously had been arrested on burglary, theft and driving while suspended charges, police said.

Porter County Coroner Chuck Harris said toxicology testing will be done to determine if drugs or alcohol played any role in the deaths.