On February 7, 2025, 46-year-old Ramiel Sanders was fatally shot at the Cedar Creek Apartments on Denton Street in Abilene, Texas. Authorities responded to reports of gunfire and discovered Sanders lying on the ground, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to provide medical assistance, Sanders was later pronounced dead due to his injuries.
Following an investigation, Abilene police identified 20-year-old Ivonyai Lamb as the primary suspect in the murder of Sanders.
Detectives obtained a warrant for Lamb’s arrest, suspecting that he remained in either Abilene or the Killeen area. Authorities urged the public to provide any information regarding his whereabouts.
Months later, Lamb was apprehended in Wilmington, North Carolina, through a coordinated effort involving the U.S. Marshals Service and the New Hanover County SWAT team. He was taken into custody and was set to be extradited to Abilene to face a murder charge. Murder is classified as a first-degree felony, carrying a potential sentence ranging from five years to life in prison.
Additionally, Lamb’s sister, Keighvoucia Lamb, was arrested in connection with separate incidents. She faced multiple charges, including three counts of aggravated assault and one misdemeanor count of false report. Authorities had previously listed both siblings on the Abilene Crime Stoppers wanted list. Keighvoucia Lamb was located in Abilene on April 29, 2025, and was being held in the Taylor County Jail with a total bond of $272,000.
The investigation into Sanders’ murder involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Killeen Police Department. Authorities credited public tips and interagency cooperation for the successful capture of the suspect.
