Philadelphia, PA – In a shocking and tragic turn of events, a man has been charged with murder after the body of 54-year-old Deborah Leatherberry was discovered inside a garbage can in West Philadelphia last month.
Authorities confirmed on Wednesday night that 61-year-old Ricardo Ponds, a resident of the 400 block of Lancaster Avenue, was arrested by SEPTA officers in Center City at 15th and Market streets. Ponds is now facing murder charges and other related offenses in connection with Leatherberry’s death.
Police responded to a distressing report on January 30, which led them to the 700 block of North 47th Street. Upon arrival, officers found Leatherberry’s lifeless body in a garbage can. Investigators determined that she had been fatally shot in the left temple.
Leatherberry, a resident of Southwest Philadelphia, leaves behind grieving loved ones as authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death. At this time, police have not provided a motive for the killing.
This heartbreaking crime has left the local community shaken, with residents demanding justice and answers. As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement officials urge anyone with information to come forward.
