Double Tragedy in Anniston: Man Found Dead, Woman Hospitalized with Gunshot Wound

Anniston police are investigating the death of a man found in a ditch and a woman found in the road with a gunshot wound. The man has been identified as Richard Austin Ward and the woman, Laura Jean Thornton, is in critical condition. The incidents are believed to be related and occurred approximately two blocks from each other. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Investigative Division.