WARRIOR ALABAMA, Shelby Amidon, a 29-year-old pregnant woman, was fatally shot at her home in Warrior, Alabama, in an incident involving a suspected stalker who later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound during a police search.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the shooting occurred early Thursday morning. Authorities identified the suspect as 43-year-old Ricky O’Neil Beck Jr.
Reports indicate that Amidon, who was expecting her second child and was married to her husband Nick Amidon, contacted emergency services after being shot and identified Beck as the individual responsible. Officials stated that the suspect had allegedly been stalking her prior to the incident.
Following the shooting, Beck left the scene in a Chevrolet Z71 truck, prompting law enforcement to issue an alert and begin a search operation.
During the response, a Blount County sheriff’s deputy encountered Beck. Authorities reported that Beck rammed the patrol vehicle and displayed a firearm. The deputy discharged their weapon, but Beck was able to leave the area, leading to an extended manhunt.
Later the same day, Beck was found deceased in a wooded area. Investigators believe he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Details about how the suspect and the victim knew each other have not been confirmed.
Shelby Amidon is survived by her husband and their young son. Family members described her as a caring and kind individual who had a positive impact on those around her.
A fundraising campaign organized by relatives has been set up to support the family during this time.
The Alabama State Bureau of Investigation is continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
