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Manhunt Underway for Labradford Jamarr Ward After Double Homicide in Shively — Amia N. Cox and Sontia R. Simmons Identified as Victims
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Manhunt Underway for Labradford Jamarr Ward After Double Homicide in Shively — Amia N. Cox and Sontia R. Simmons Identified as Victims

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LOUISVILLE, Ky— A tragic and senseless act of violence has left a Louisville community in shock, as authorities search for Labradford Jamarr Ward, 35, who is accused of fatally shooting two women early Monday morning in Shively.

According to Sgt. Jordan Brown with the Shively Police Department, Ward is wanted on charges of murder, murder – domestic violence, and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon. Police warn the public that Ward is armed and dangerous and should not be approached.

Manhunt Underway for Labradford Jamarr Ward After Double Homicide in Shively — Amia N. Cox and Sontia R. Simmons Identified as Victims

Shooting Unfolds in Early Morning Hours

The fatal incident occurred shortly after 1:30 a.m. on Monday, July 7, 2025, when officers were dispatched to the 3200 block of Kingswood Way, near Cane Run Road and Ralph Avenue, following reports of a shooting.

Upon arrival, officers found two women suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office later identified the victims as:

  • Amia N. Cox, 22
  • Sontia R. Simmons, 26

Both young women were in the prime of their lives, and their sudden, violent deaths have devastated family members and shaken the entire Shively community.

Suspect Identified as Labradford Jamarr Ward

Labradford Jamarr Ward is the primary suspect in the double homicide. Sgt. Brown confirmed that Ward was previously stopped by police during a traffic incident in May 2025, and police have released bodycam footage and a prior mugshot to assist in identifying him.

Ward is believed to be driving a 2021 red Ford Mustang with Kentucky license plate F3W849. Police say that Ward has a criminal record and was prohibited from possessing a firearm. His alleged involvement in this deadly attack has intensified urgency around his arrest.

Investigators believe that at least one of the victims may have had a past relationship with Ward, leading authorities to classify one of the murder charges as domestic in nature.

Public Urged to Help, But Stay Away

Shively Police are asking for the public’s help in locating Labradford Jamarr Ward but urge extreme caution. Anyone who sees Ward or his vehicle should not attempt to intervene but should immediately contact police.

  • To share tips or information, call Shively Police at 502-448-6181
  • To remain anonymous, call the SPD Tip Line at 502-930-2SPD

Community in Mourning

The killings of Amia N. Cox and Sontia R. Simmons have left two families broken and a community reeling. Tributes are pouring in for the young women whose lives were cut short in a moment of unthinkable violence.

As the search for Labradford Jamarr Ward continues, police are asking the public to stay vigilant—and to help bring justice for Amia and Sontia.

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CLEARWATER COUNTY, ID — Tragedy Strikes as 18-Year-Old Sheldon Medford Dies in Boulder Accident While Camping CLEARWATER COUNTY, Idaho (Gray News) — What was meant to be a peaceful and memorable weekend in the wilderness ended in unthinkable tragedy when a young Idaho man lost his life in a freak accident. Authorities have confirmed that 18-year-old Sheldon Medford, a resident of Lewiston, was killed after being struck and pinned by a falling boulder while camping in the Ahsahka area of Clearwater County on the evening of June 7. According to a statement released by the Clearwater County Sheriff’s Office, emergency dispatchers received a distress call just after 9:30 p.m. reporting a serious accident along Northfork Drive, approximately one mile down the remote stretch known for its rugged beauty and rocky terrain. When first responders arrived at the scene, they found Medford already pinned beneath a massive boulder. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials described the boulder as large and heavy enough that it would have required significant effort and equipment to move. Investigators believe the boulder dislodged from a nearby rock face, likely due to natural erosion or shifting soil, and struck Medford as he was either setting up camp or resting nearby. The incident appears to have been a tragic accident, and no foul play is suspected. “This was a heartbreaking and unforeseeable incident,” said Clearwater County Sheriff Chris Goetz. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Medford family during this incredibly difficult time. Losing someone so young and full of life in such a sudden, tragic way is something no family should have to endure.” Sheldon Medford was well known in the Lewiston community for his friendly spirit, sense of adventure, and kind-hearted nature. Friends and family described him as a young man who loved the outdoors, often finding peace and joy in the forests, rivers, and wild terrain of northern Idaho. He had recently graduated from high school and was preparing for the next chapter of his life—whether that meant continuing his education or exploring career opportunities that would allow him to stay close to the land he loved so dearly. “Sheldon had a deep love for nature,” a family friend said. “Camping, hiking, fishing—those were his passions. He was always the one to suggest a weekend out under the stars. It’s devastating that the very place he found the most peace is where his life ended.” In the days following the incident, tributes have poured in from across the community. At Lewiston High School, where Sheldon had just completed his senior year, students and teachers gathered for a moment of silence. A memorial adorned with flowers, photos, and heartfelt messages now stands near the school’s entrance—a testament to the impact Sheldon had on those around him. Social media has also been flooded with condolences and remembrances, with many friends sharing photos of camping trips, fishing outings, and moments of laughter spent with Sheldon. One post read, “He was the kind of friend who made everything fun. No matter how cold or muddy the trip was, Sheldon made it worth it.” Authorities have reminded outdoor enthusiasts to always be aware of natural hazards when exploring or camping in rocky or mountainous areas. While tragedies like this are extremely rare, they serve as sobering reminders of the unpredictable power of nature. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the Medford family with funeral expenses and to help create a memorial in Sheldon’s honor. The family has expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the community. Funeral arrangements are currently being finalized and will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, the Medford family has asked for privacy as they grieve the unimaginable loss of their son, brother, and friend. As Clearwater County and the surrounding communities continue to mourn, Sheldon Medford will be remembered not only for the way he died—but for the way he lived: with courage, compassion, and an adventurous heart that found joy under Idaho’s open skies.