Ladarius Blanks dies in fatal Cordele shooting

Ladarius Blanks dies in fatal Cordele shooting

Fatal Cordele shooting death of Ladarius Blanks

Ladarius Blanks was discovered lying on South 12th Street’s 700 block after being shot in what law enforcement are calling a triple shooting in Cordele on June 19. Two additional teenagers, ages 15 to 17, were also wounded nearby in the same incident.

Cordele’s Police Chief Jalon Heard confirmed that Blanks, who was just 18 years old, succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Local residents are voicing alarm, saying the spike in juvenile-related crime during the summer months signals a lack of safe activities for youth. Rashida Booker-Fields, a nearby resident, shared heartfelt concern that Cordele’s young people feel they have nowhere to turn. Davontae Hunt, a candidate for City Commission in Ward 2, echoed that sentiment, describing the shooting as eerily close to home.

Chief Heard commented that while the investigation is ongoing, preliminary indicators suggest a possible gang connection behind the violence — though he urged caution against jumping to conclusions.

Community leaders are urging parents to step up and offer constructive outlets for their children — such as picnics or park visits — and for youth to make better choices. Hunt emphasized the importance of positive reinforcement at home, and Booker-Fields encouraged creating opportunities that steer children away from the streets.

Chief Heard noted a recent rise in juvenile offenses—including vehicle break-ins and shoplifting—since the arrival of summer. To combat this trend, he encouraged families to make use of the city’s free events and programs listed on the City of Cordele’s Facebook page.

The police department has already hosted over twenty community events this year, with more scheduled to offer safe, engaging options for youngsters.