Luther Ward Jr., a 26-year-old resident of Palatka, Florida, tragically lost his life on September 3, 2022. He was killed in a shooting incident outside Vick’s Supper Club on US 17 and North 18th Street. The incident, which occurred late on a Saturday night, resulted from an argument that escalated into gunfire. In addition to Luther Ward Jr., another individual was killed, two people were critically injured, and a fifth person was severely hurt after being beaten with a blunt object. The Palatka Police Department, along with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, and the state attorney’s homicide investigative team, are actively investigating the case.
Luther Ward Jr. was a hardworking truck driver and a loving father. His mother, Bea-Trece DeLeon, described him as a person with a good heart who did not cause trouble. She expressed her grief and confusion over the senseless violence that took her son's life. The community has shown support by sending condolences and visiting the site of the shooting with flowers and balloons.
The police have identified a suspect in the case but have not yet released any information about the individual. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to apprehend the suspect and bring justice to the victims and their families. The tragic event has left the community in mourning and has highlighted the devastating impact of gun violence.
