Ladarius Blanks Obituary, Death – Authorities have released the identity of the young man who died in a triple shooting that took place in Cordele, Georgia, on June 19. Cordele Police Chief Jalon Heard confirmed that 18-year-old Ladarius Blanks was the victim found lying in the roadway in the 700 block of South 12th Street. Alongside Blanks, two other teenagers—between the ages of 15 and 17—were also shot and wounded in the same area.
The fatal incident has sent shockwaves through the Cordele community, sparking concern among residents and leaders who say the town’s youth need more positive engagement and support. Rashida Booker-Fields, a local resident, voiced her heartbreak over the tragedy, stressing that a lack of resources and activities for young people has contributed to rising violence. “There is nothing for these kids to do. That’s why it’s so much turmoil and trouble going on here,” she said. “My heart cries for my city.”
Davontae Hunt, a Cordele City Commission candidate for Ward 2, added his perspective, noting the personal impact of the shooting’s location. “I grew up in this house, right here behind me where this happened. This could’ve been me or one of my family members,” he said.
The police chief indicated that the shooting does not appear to be random. “Everything is pointing to this not being random,” Chief Heard explained. “I do believe that this was gang related, but we’re still investigating.” While the investigation is ongoing, the preliminary findings suggest organized criminal activity may have been involved.
As the community grieves, calls for action are growing. Local residents are urging youth to put down their guns and for parents to play a more active role in their children’s lives. “Just show our kids that they really do have more to give because it starts with us. Our actions determine our children’s reactions,” Hunt emphasized.
Fields echoed that sentiment, calling on adults to set better examples and encourage positive habits. “It starts at home. You can create things for kids to do—go on a picnic, take them to the park. Do something positive. Keep positiveness in these kids’ heads.”
Chief Heard also acknowledged a recent uptick in crimes involving juveniles, particularly as summer has begun. He noted that police have seen an increase in minor offenses such as vehicle break-ins and shoplifting, many of which are being committed by youth.
To help combat this trend, Chief Heard is urging parents to take advantage of the many free activities available in Cordele. “This year so far, we have had 22 events, and we have more planned,” he said. He encouraged residents to check the Cordele Police or City of Cordele Facebook pages for updates.
In response to the incident and broader concerns, the city is continuing its efforts to provide safe, family-friendly options to help keep young people engaged and off the streets.