WARRIOR, Alabama – A 29-year-old Alabama woman, expecting her second child, was fatally shot Thursday morning by a man authorities have identified as her stalker. Shelby Amidon, of Warrior, died after being attacked in her home, and the suspect, Ricky O’Neil Beck Jr., 43, later died by suicide following a manhunt, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). The tragic incident underscores the escalating dangers of stalking and the devastating impact on victims and their families.
The shooting occurred early Thursday morning, prompting a 911 call from Amidon herself, in which she named Beck as her assailant, AL.com reported. Authorities believe Beck had been stalking Amidon for some time prior to the attack, though the nature of their relationship remains unclear. The case has quickly drawn attention to the issue of stalking and the challenges of protecting potential victims.
Following the shooting, Beck fled the scene in a silver Chevrolet Z71 pickup truck, prompting an immediate and extensive search by local and state law enforcement. During the pursuit, Beck reportedly rammed a patrol vehicle belonging to the Blount County Sheriff’s Office and discharged a firearm, according to Senior ALEA Trooper Brandon Bailey. A deputy returned fire, but Beck continued to evade capture.
Manhunt and Discovery
The ensuing manhunt involved multiple agencies and covered a significant area of Blount County. Authorities issued an alert describing Beck and his vehicle, urging the public to report any sightings. Later that same day, Beck’s body was discovered in a wooded area, where investigators determined he had died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The Alabama State Bureau of Investigation (ASBI) is currently leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting and Beck’s death. Investigators are working to piece together the timeline of events and determine the full extent of Beck’s stalking behavior.
A Family’s Grief and a Community’s Support
Shelby Amidon is survived by her husband, Nick Amidon, a data analyst, and their young son. A GoFundMe campaign organized by Nick’s mother has been established to support the family during this incredibly difficult time. As of Tuesday evening, the campaign had raised nearly $12,000 towards its goal.
“Shelby was a stunning soul who brought love, warmth, and light to those around her. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her,” wrote Nick’s mother on the GoFundMe page. “No family should ever have to endure this kind of pain.” The outpouring of support from the community reflects the profound loss felt by those who knew Amidon.
Understanding the Threat of Stalking
This case highlights the exceptionally real and often terrifying threat of stalking. According to the Stalking Resource Center, nearly 7.5 million women and over 3.7 million men experience stalking each year in the United States. Stalking behaviors can range from unwanted communication and surveillance to threats and violence.
If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking, resources are available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers support and guidance at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or through their website at https://www.thehotline.org/. The Stalking Resource Center provides information and resources specifically related to stalking at https://victimconnect.org/learn/types-of-crime/stalking/.
The ASBI investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not yet released details regarding potential prior reports of stalking or any restraining orders that may have been in place. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses. The community is left to mourn the loss of Shelby Amidon and her unborn child, and to grapple with the tragic consequences of stalking and violence.
The next update from authorities is expected to approach from the Alabama State Bureau of Investigation as they complete their investigation into the events leading up to the shooting and Beck’s death.
We encourage readers to share this story and to reach out for help if they or someone they know is experiencing stalking or domestic violence. Your comments and support are appreciated.
