A Louisville man, Anthony Nichols, 57, was arrested on Wednesday after authorities believe he shot and killed a woman, then disposed of her body in the Ohio River. Nichols faces charges of murder – domestic violence, violating a Kentucky emergency protective order, and tampering with physical evidence.
The incident came to light around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday when the Shively Police Department requested assistance from the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) to search for a possible homicide victim in Cox’s Park. Upon arrival, LMPD officers discovered a woman, later identified as 53-year-old Arica Brown, facedown in the water with a fatal gunshot wound to the head.
Earlier that day, Shively Police had responded to a report of a woman being shot, but upon arrival at the specified address, they found no victim. Neighbors informed officers that Brown had been staying at the residence but had left two days prior and had not been seen since.
Shively Police detectives facilitated a phone call between Nichols and the 911 caller, during which Nichols allegedly admitted to shooting Brown in the head and dumping her body in the river. Investigators confirmed the location mentioned by Nichols was Cox’s Park and observed his car on LMPD flock cameras in the area on the morning of December 7.
Following this, LMPD obtained a search warrant for Nichols’ car, where they found suspected blood evidence, leading to his arrest. While being detained, Nichols reportedly claimed the shooting was an accident.
It was also revealed that Brown had an active domestic violence order against Nichols, which prohibited him from contacting her within 500 feet and from possessing firearms.
The case has shocked the local community, highlighting the ongoing issues of domestic violence and the tragic consequences it can have. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Brown’s death, seeking justice for the victim and her grieving loved ones. The incident underscores the importance of enforcing protective orders and providing support to those affected by domestic violence. As the investigation progresses, more details are expected to emerge, shedding light on this tragic event and its impact on the community.
