In the quiet early hours of Monday, July 7, the tight-knit city of Shively, Kentucky, was rocked by a brutal act of violence that would leave a lasting scar on the community. Two young women—22-year-old Amia Cox and 26-year-old Sontia Simmons—were shot and killed in what authorities described as a targeted and deeply personal attack. Days later, the man accused of their murders, Labradford Ward, was found dead near Green Meadows Memorial Cemetery from what police have confirmed was a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
As the shockwaves of this tragedy ripple through Jefferson County, grieving families, friends, and community members are left searching for answers. The loss of three young lives—two victims and their alleged killer—has not only left a void in the lives of those who loved them but has also raised urgent questions about domestic violence, mental health, and the hidden struggles within intimate relationships.
What Happened?
According to the Shively Police Department, emergency services responded to reports of gunfire on the morning of Monday, July 7. Upon arrival at the scene, officers found two women—later identified as Amia Cox and Sontia Simmons—dead from multiple gunshot wounds. The killings occurred in a residential area within Shively, a small city just southwest of Louisville.
Both victims were declared dead at the scene. Initial investigations pointed to Labradford Ward, 29, as the primary suspect in the double homicide. By Monday evening, police had issued a public notice naming Ward and asking for help locating him. Authorities believed Ward may have been armed and dangerous, urging the public to remain vigilant.
On Sunday, July 13, almost a full week after the murders, the search came to an unexpected and somber conclusion. Ward’s body was discovered near the Green Meadows Memorial Cemetery—an eerie setting that underscored the haunting nature of the case. Police say he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and no foul play is suspected in his death.
Who Were the Victims?
Remembering Amia Cox: A Bright Light Dimmed Too Soon
Amia Cox, just 22 years old, was described by friends as a warm, loving soul with a fierce sense of loyalty and an infectious laugh. A recent college graduate and aspiring entrepreneur, Amia had plans to start a small business in Louisville focusing on wellness and skincare. Her social media pages reflected a life filled with creativity, self-expression, and a passion for empowering young women in her community.
“She lit up every room she walked into,” said her cousin Tasha, wiping tears during a candlelight vigil held the night after her death. “Amia had big dreams and an even bigger heart. She didn’t deserve this.”
Honoring Sontia Simmons: A Sister, Friend, and Advocate
Sontia Simmons, 26, was more than just a friend to Amia—she was a confidante, a protector, and an advocate. A single mother of a 4-year-old daughter, Sontia balanced parenthood with a full-time job in healthcare. She was known among colleagues as hardworking and deeply compassionate, especially toward elderly patients.
Sontia had reportedly been in a romantic relationship with Labradford Ward, though close friends described the relationship as complicated. While authorities have not publicly confirmed a motive, investigators have hinted at the possibility of a domestic dispute escalating into violence.
“She was trying to get out,” said a family friend, who asked to remain anonymous. “She told us things weren’t right, but no one could have imagined it would come to this.”
The Suspect: Labradford Ward’s Troubled History
Labradford Ward, the man police identified as the primary suspect, was no stranger to law enforcement. According to public records, Ward had a prior criminal record that included charges related to assault and possession of a firearm. Still, those who knew him say he had a charismatic side, often masking deeper emotional turmoil.
“Brad could be sweet, but he had demons,” said one former acquaintance. “It always felt like he was fighting something inside.”
Authorities are still piecing together the events that led up to the murders, including whether there were any prior threats or warning signs. What is clear is that Ward’s actions ended three lives—his victims’, and his own.
The Aftermath: Community Shock and Grief
As news of the double homicide and subsequent suicide spread across social media and local news outlets, the city of Shively responded with an outpouring of emotion. Candlelight vigils were held in memory of Cox and Simmons, with attendees wearing shirts bearing their photos and carrying signs that read, “Justice for Amia and Sontia” and “Say Their Names.”
At a vigil held outside Amia’s family home, friends and family stood together in silence before releasing white balloons into the sky. The crowd was quiet, except for the soft cries of loved ones grappling with the sudden loss.
“She was my best friend,” said Amia’s childhood friend Kiana. “We talked every single day. Now I’ll never hear her voice again.”
A separate vigil was held for Sontia at the clinic where she worked. Her colleagues remembered her as the heart of their team—someone who always went the extra mile for patients and never hesitated to support a friend in need.
The Search for Answers: What Comes Next?
With the suspect deceased, many fear that the full story of what led to the July 7 killings may never be known. The Shively Police Department has indicated they will continue their investigation in hopes of uncovering more details. Detectives are reviewing phone records, surveillance footage, and eyewitness accounts to better understand the timeline and possible motive.
“We may never have all the answers,” said Shively Police Chief Kevin Higdon. “But our commitment is to the families. We will do everything in our power to help them understand what happened and why.”
Police have not ruled out the possibility that others may have known about tensions between Ward and Simmons. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to come forward, stressing that even small details could help bring closure.
Domestic Violence and Mental Health in Focus
The tragedy has also reignited important conversations around domestic violence and mental health in Kentucky and beyond. Local advocacy groups have called for increased support for victims of abusive relationships, especially in communities of color where stigma and lack of resources often create additional barriers.
“Too often, victims suffer in silence,” said Monica Hill, Executive Director of Louisville Safe Haven. “We need to create systems where survivors feel safe seeking help without fear of retaliation or being ignored.”
Mental health advocates have also pointed to the need for better intervention and treatment for individuals displaying signs of emotional instability or suicidal ideation.
Public and Family Reaction
The families of Amia Cox and Sontia Simmons have released statements asking for privacy and prayers as they navigate unimaginable grief. Amia’s family described her as “the joy of our lives” and thanked the community for the overwhelming support.
Sontia’s family issued a statement through a family friend, saying: “Our hearts are shattered. She was a mother, a sister, a friend. Her life was stolen, and we are struggling to understand why.”
Public reaction has been deeply emotional. On social media, hashtags like #JusticeForAmiaAndSontia and #ShivelyStrong have trended locally, as hundreds share messages of mourning and calls for justice reform.
Official Statement from Authorities
In a press briefing, Chief Higdon reiterated the department’s commitment to transparency. “This was a tragedy of the highest order. Two innocent lives were taken, and now the person we believe responsible is also gone. We understand the frustration that comes with a lack of closure. We will continue working to provide the families with answers.”
He also emphasized that the case remains open in terms of evidence collection and understanding the full narrative.
Final Farewell: Honoring the Lives Lost
Funeral services for both women are being planned. According to family sources, Amia Cox will be laid to rest in a private ceremony later this week. Sontia Simmons’ service is also being arranged, with friends organizing a GoFundMe to support her young daughter’s future.
As the city mourns, one message continues to resonate: these women were more than headlines. They were daughters, sisters, friends—lives full of potential, taken far too soon.