Ithaca homicide investigation continues, but no updates so far

The Ithaca Police Department is intensifying its efforts to solve the fatal shooting of 45-year-old Ernest Lankford, who was killed in the early hours of Thursday, Oct. 12, near the intersection of West Seneca Street and North Plain Street.

The Ithaca Voice reports that as of now, there have been no arrests in connection to the incident that took place at around 3:30 a.m.

Lankford, a father of five, has had two GoFundMe campaigns set up by his family, who have refrained from making any public comments.

Acting Chief Ted Schwartz from the Ithaca Police Department told The Voice that the investigation is “quite active and ongoing,” but refrained from sharing further specifics, including details of potential suspects.

The shooting was described as not a random incident.The morning after, residents awoke to a heavy police presence, with officers marking locations of the seven shell casings found on the street.

Staff Report

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