A tragic shooting in Louisville’s Russell neighborhood has claimed the life of a young mother, identified by friends as Redeja, known on Instagram as “@adoree.juicy” and affectionately called “Juicy” by those close to her.
The shooting happened around 8 a.m. Wednesday near 11th and Chestnut streets, close to several schools, including Coleridge-Taylor Montessori Elementary and Central High School, and near multiple bus stops. According to Louisville Metro Police Chief Paul Humphrey, Redeja was walking a young child to the bus stop when a gunman opened fire. The child was unharmed, but Redeja was rushed to UofL Health Hospital, where she died from her injuries.
Witnesses said several children were at the bus stop and saw the shooting unfold, making the incident especially traumatic for the community.
Her friend Angel Marie shared a heartfelt tribute on social media: “The prettiest, the flyest, the dopest, the realist — long live Juicy. Praying for your family, most of all your daughters. I can’t believe this is life… it’s scary out here and I don’t wish this on anybody.”
Police initially detained a 15-year-old boy near The Academy at Shawnee for questioning, but later released him after determining he was not the suspect. Authorities are now searching for the shooter, described as a young Black male wearing a red hoodie and black sweatpants.
Chief Humphrey called the incident “absolutely unacceptable” and emphasized the need for children to feel safe traveling to school. “Kids should be able to go to school without any fear of gun violence, without any fear of having to run for their life in the morning,” he said. “This is the second time in a week that we’ve had to talk about something like this, and it’s absolutely pathetic.”
The YMCA, JCPS counselors, and the city’s Office of Violence Prevention are offering support to students, families, and community members affected by the tragedy.
Police are urging anyone with information to call the anonymous tip line at 502-574-LMPD.
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