EVANSVILLE, IN (WFIE) -
Murder suspect Ira Beumer is free on bond Tuesday night.
Beumer told investigators he was robbed at gunpoint in his home on Big Cynthiana Road in February. Authorities say Beumer chased the robbery suspects in his truck crashing into their car. One person died.
Tuesday, a judge granted the Vanderburgh County mans release while he awaits trial.
A bail hearing lasted for about an hour. Beumer's friends gathered saying they're glad he can go home to his family.
"He's a good father, he works hard. He takes care of his family, takes care of his friends," said Bryon Carnahan, a family friend of more than 20 years. "He's not a murderer, he's not a murderer. He has remorse. He wishes the whole thing never took place."
Carnahan was one of more than 90 people that showed up in support of Beumer on Tuesday.
Inside the courtroom, a Vanderburgh County Deputy testified that Beumer told him, "I rammed them. I was trying to kill them," at the accident scene last February.
An Indiana State Trooper testified Beumer's truck was going 30 mph faster than the suspect's car. The trooper said there was no indication of braking until less than two seconds before the collision.
"It's a tragedy that this even had to happen. That somebody died in this terrible situation," said Carnahan.
Friends of Beumer say Beumer thought his daughter was kidnapped by the suspects and that's why he chased after them.
Supporters showed up in full force Tuesday and a judge granted their request to let Beumer go home as he awaits his trial. Beumer is still charged with murder.
"I'm excited he gets to go home to his family. That's where he belongs," said friend Shane Eyre.
"We're just going to be with family tonight, and hope that everything works out," said Carnahan.
Beumer's bond was set at $2,500 cash. He is not allowed to leave his home without court permission and he is required to undergo electronic monitoring.
We will keep you updated as the trial begins.
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Source: Vanderburgh Co. Jail
