Rodney Curtis Ward, a 48-year-old male from Amarillo, Texas, tragically passed away on January 19, 2021, due to injuries sustained from a gunshot wound. The incident occurred after a traffic accident in the area of SW 1st Avenue and S. Bonham Street. Ward was the only occupant of the vehicle and was taken to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries the following day.
Following Ward's death, the Amarillo Police Department launched an investigation into the shooting. On January 21, 2021, a 15-year-old male was arrested in connection with the incident. The investigation continued, and on January 22, 2021, SWAT officers assisted the APD Homicide Unit in executing search warrants at two residences in the 100 block of S. Austin Street. Evidence collected during the search led to the arrest of 18-year-old Edward Matthew Gamez. Gamez was subsequently booked into the Randall County Jail for murder.
The case against Gamez involved multiple pieces of evidence linking him to the crime, and he was charged with the murder of Rodney Curtis Ward. The investigation highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Amarillo Police Department and the community in bringing the suspect to justice.
Rodney Curtis Ward was remembered by his family and friends as a kind and helpful individual who always sought to assist others. His passing left a significant impact on those who knew him, and his loved ones continue to honor his memory.
