LOUISVILLE, KY — A manhunt is underway for Labradford Jamarr Ward, 35, of Louisville, who is wanted in connection with a double homicide that shook the Shively community in the early morning hours of Monday, July 7, 2025.

According to the Shively Police Department, Ward is suspected of fatally shooting two women in a residential neighborhood on Kingswood Way. The incident unfolded shortly after 1:30 a.m., when officers responded to reports of gunfire in the area located near Cane Run Road and Ralph Avenue. Upon arrival, officers found two women in their 20s suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office later identified the deceased as 22-year-old Amia N. Cox and 26-year-old Sontia R. Simmons. Both women were known and loved by family and friends, and their tragic deaths have sent ripples of sorrow throughout the local community.

Suspect Information & Ongoing Search

Labradford Jamarr Ward is now the subject of an active manhunt, and multiple law enforcement agencies are working collaboratively to locate him. He is wanted on charges of murder, domestic violence-related murder, and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon.

Ward is believed to be armed and dangerous. Police say he may be traveling in a 2021 red Ford Mustang with a Kentucky license plate: F3W849. Authorities urge the public not to approach Ward if spotted but to contact law enforcement immediately.

The Shively Police Department has also released a mugshot of Ward from a previous arrest, as well as bodycam footage from a traffic stop in May 2025, in hopes that someone in the public may recognize him or provide helpful information leading to his apprehension.

Remembering the Victims

The sudden and brutal loss of Amia Cox and Sontia Simmons has left their families reeling. Friends and loved ones describe both women as vibrant, compassionate, and full of promise. Vigils are being planned to honor their memory, and grief counselors have been made available to the community in light of this senseless act of violence.

“They were daughters, friends, sisters—and their lives were stolen far too soon,” said one family member. “We want justice. And we want peace for their souls.”

How You Can Help

The Shively Police Department is urging anyone with information regarding Ward’s whereabouts to come forward. You can call the Shively Police tip line at 502-448-6181, or provide anonymous information through Crime Stoppers at 502-930-2SPD.

Warning to the Public

Authorities continue to emphasize that Ward should be considered armed and dangerous. If you believe you have seen him or have any relevant information, do not try to intervene. Instead, contact law enforcement immediately.

🧭 The Road Ahead

As investigators continue piecing together the events that led up to this tragic act, the community is left mourning two young lives taken without cause. The search for Labradford Jamarr Ward continues, and local leaders are calling for unity, vigilance, and compassion as Shively grieves.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as new details emerge.