Kentucky Teen Accused of Using 15-Year-Old Girl to Lure Victim Into Deadly Ambush in Alleged Revenge Plot

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY — A Kentucky teenager is facing multiple felony charges after police say he orchestrated a deadly ambush that used a 15-year-old girl to lure a young man to his death as part of a calculated revenge plan.

The Louisville Metropolitan Police Department announced this week that Daontez Hodges Jr., 19, has been charged with complicity to murder, complicity to robbery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and unlawful transaction with a minor in connection with the killing of Milton Ritchie, 20.

Police said Hodges turned himself in Tuesday at a Kentucky Probation and Parole office, weeks after the fatal shooting.

Deadly Shooting Reported in Pleasure Ridge Park Neighborhood

According to court documents, officers were called to the 3000 block of Fordhaven Road, near St. Anthony Church Road, on the afternoon of December 20 following reports of gunfire in Louisville’s Pleasure Ridge Park neighborhood.

When first responders arrived, they found Ritchie suffering from two gunshot wounds, one to his lower back and another to his neck. Despite emergency medical efforts at the scene, Ritchie was pronounced dead.

Investigators said Ritchie’s body was discovered near his vehicle, which had crashed into a ditch following the shooting.

Police Say Victim Was Lured to Location by 15-Year-Old Girl

Investigators allege that Ritchie was intentionally lured to the location under false pretenses by a 15-year-old girl, who he believed was meeting him there.

According to a court memo cited by local media, when Ritchie arrived, he encountered the 15-year-old, Hodges, and several other individuals described as “involved parties.”

Shortly after his arrival, police believe Hodges opened fire with a rifle, striking Ritchie twice.

The 15-year-old girl was arrested last month and is facing charges of complicity to murder and complicity to robbery. Her identity has not been released due to her age.

Investigators Describe Killing as Part of a “Revenge Plan”

The Louisville Courier Journal reported that investigators believe the attack was part of a planned act of revenge, which also involved the intent to steal Ritchie’s vehicle.

Authorities say the use of a minor to lure the victim played a central role in executing the plan, leading to additional charges tied to unlawful involvement of a juvenile.

Police have not publicly detailed what motivated the alleged revenge plot.

Additional Charges Linked to Separate Violent Robbery

Hodges is also facing separate criminal charges stemming from an alleged robbery at a liquor store on January 1, according to court records.

Investigators allege Hodges stole two bottles of liquor and, when followed outside by a store clerk, smashed one of the bottles over the clerk’s head. The clerk reportedly suffered severe injuries that required surgery.

These allegations were included in court filings as prosecutors sought to outline Hodges’ criminal history and potential danger to the public.

Teen Held on $150,000 Cash-Only Bond

Hodges is currently being held at the Louisville Metro Corrections Center on a $150,000 cash-only bond. He is scheduled to appear in court for his arraignment on January 22.

Police have not announced whether additional arrests are expected in the case.

Victim’s Family Speaks Out After Arrest

Ritchie’s family told WLKY that the 20-year-old had spent the day running errands and visiting his father in the hospital shortly before he was killed.

In a statement, Ritchie’s parents expressed gratitude following Hodges’ arrest.

“We are grateful for the progress in our son’s case. We are trusting the process and thankful for the work being done. Please continue to pray for us as we seek justice for Milton,” the family said.

As the investigation continues, the case has drawn attention to the use of juveniles in violent crimes and the devastating consequences of retaliatory violence. For continued updates on this case and other breaking public safety stories from Kentucky and across the Midwest, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.