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Teenager arrested in connection with VPD murder investigation

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VALDOSTA – Valdosta police arrest a juvenile in connection with the murder of a 52-year-old Valdosta woman.

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Arrested: Male juvenile, Caucasian, 15 years old, resident of Valdosta
Victim: Nita Ann Luke, Caucasian female, 52 years old, resident of Valdosta

On June 29, 2024, at approximately 5:49 p.m., Valdosta Police officers responded to an address in the 100 block of Jackson Drive after a citizen called E911 to report an unresponsive female in the residence. When officers arrived at the residence, they found 52-year-old Nita Ann Luke dead and covered in blood, with obvious signs of injuries to her body. Emergency medical services responded and confirmed Luke was dead. As officers, assisted by officers from the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, searched the area, they found evidence that led them to believe Luke’s 15-year-old grandson may have been involved in her death. Officers observed the juvenile pacing outside Luke’s residence. He was detained by officers and transported to the Valdosta Police Department.

Detectives and forensic investigators were on site to conduct the investigation.

Based on the evidence and witness statements collected, investigators confirmed that Luke’s grandson was involved in her death.

Investigators met with a Lowndes County Superior Court judge and obtained warrants for the juvenile’s arrest on the following grounds:

  • Intentional murder – serious crime;
  • Aggravated murder – serious crime;
  • Serious bodily harm with a deadly weapon – criminal offence; and
  • Possession of a knife during the commission of a serious crime.

The juvenile is currently being held at a regional juvenile detention center and may face further charges.

“This is one of the most gruesome crimes I have ever witnessed. I am extremely proud of the teamwork between our first officers on the scene, deputies, detectives and crime scene personnel who quickly identified the perpetrator and took him into custody. Our prayers are with Ms. Luke’s family and friends as they try to understand why this unnecessary act of violence occurred,” said Police Chief Leslie Manahan.

If anyone has additional information about this or other cases, please contact the Valdosta Police Department’s Bureau of Investigative Services at 229-293-3145, the Crime Tip Line at 229-293-3091, or submit a tip online at www.valdostacity.com/police-department.

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