LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) is addressing online speculation circulating after a man was found fatally shot in the Russell neighborhood.
Authorities found 34-year-old Mitchell Jackson Jr. laying in the road on 18th Street and West Muhammad Ali Boulevard around 9 a.m. Sunday.
Initially, police reported Jackson had no obvious signs of injuries, but LMPD later confirmed he died from multiple gunshot wounds. The department believes he was killed somewhere else.
Several social media posts, including a photo, claimed the victim in the shooting was found wrapped in apparent black material. The posts also claimed more victims had been found in a similar manner, going so far as to suggest a serial killer was roaming Louisville’s streets.
On Wednesday, LMPD addressed those claims, calling them unfounded.
“LMPD is aware of all the rumors and speculation floating around online,” the department said. “We believe this is an isolated incident and there are no homicides similar in nature.”
When asked about the photo Tuesday, LMPD told WHAS11 the department could not confirm its authenticity. A spokesperson did confirm duct tape was found on the victim’s body, but said releasing more details in ongoing cases could be a “detriment to the investigation.”
“Each time there is a homicide within LMPD’s jurisdiction,” they added. “This office notifies each media outlet within a very short time of each occurrence.”
LMPD said the Homicide Unit’s investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with any information is urged to contact police using the anonymous tip line at 502-574-LMPD (5673). Reports can also be made online by clicking here.
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