In Jefferson County, Missouri, a High Ridge man, Harold Luster, has entered a plea of not guilty following charges related to the fatal shooting of his son on Christmas Eve. The 61-year-old Luster faces serious allegations, including first-degree murder and armed criminal action, stemming from the tragic incident that occurred on December 24th at the 6400 Block of Highway PP in High Ridge.
According to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to the scene on Tuesday night, where they found a man, later identified as Kevin Ward, 26, of St. Louis, deceased from a gunshot wound to the head. The investigation revealed that a heated disagreement led Luster to retrieve a firearm from his home, subsequently threatening another person before allegedly shooting his son.
Ward's fiancée, who witnessed the horrifying events, provided a detailed account to detectives. She explained that Luster became agitated, accusing her of complicity in alleged infidelity involving Ward's mother. The situation escalated quickly, with Luster reportedly issuing a direct threat, asking, "Do you wanna get shot?" During the confrontation, Ward advised his fiancée to run and call 911 if things took a turn for the worse.
Taking refuge by an outbuilding, Ward's fiancée observed as Luster confronted his son. Despite Ward's attempts to deescalate the situation, Luster's aggression culminated in a deadly outcome. Court documents detail that Ward told his father, "You're not going to shoot her," to which Luster allegedly replied, "You wanna get shot instead?" Moments later, Luster raised his arm, believed to be holding a firearm, and fired a single, fatal shot at his son.
Surveillance footage obtained from a nearby residence corroborated the witness's account, capturing the fatal shooting outside the home. Luster was subsequently taken into custody without incident and is currently being held without bond at the Jefferson County Jail. His bond review hearing is scheduled for January 3rd.
Grant Bissell, a spokesperson for the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, remarked on the increased stress during the holiday season, acknowledging the busy period for law enforcement. He noted that added pressures and seasonal stress can often exacerbate underlying tensions, leading to tragic outcomes.
The community has been left in shock and mourning as they come to terms with the violent loss of Kevin Ward, described as a dedicated worker and a beloved member of his family and community. The Jefferson County Sheriff's Department continues to investigate the incident, seeking to understand the full context of the dispute that ended so tragically. Harold Luster, now facing severe charges, awaits his day in court, where the legal system will determine his fate based on the evidence and testimonies presented.
