The Chester County District Attorney’s Office and the Downingtown Police Department announce that Debra Dora, 60, of West Chester, Pennsylvania, has been charged (the Defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty) with Attempted Murder and other related charges for shooting another person and threatening his life. Following her arraignment by the Honorable John Hipple, the Defendant was remanded to Chester County Prison after failing to post $750,000 bail.

According to the criminal complaint, Downingtown police officers responded to the 200 Block of Chestnut Street, Downingtown, Pennsylvania, on Sunday, July 19th, 2026, at about 12:30 a.m. for a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located the Defendant still in possession of a firearm and immediately took her into custody without further incident. Officers also located the victim, who sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe said, “This case demonstrates how a personal dispute can quickly turn into an act of violence. Thankfully, the Downingtown Police Department quickly responded to the scene and was able to apprehend the Defendant so she can be held accountable for her actions.”

Downingtown Police Chief Brendan Brazunas said, “All of the evidence available to us supports that this is an isolated incident. The Downingtown Police Department is dedicated to ensuring that everyone living in Downingtown Borough remains safe. I am proud of the swift, professional response of our officers in this case that led to a quick arrest.”