A family holiday gathering turned into tragedy on Christmas Eve when a Missouri man allegedly killed his son during a heated argument over his wife’s suspected affair.
Harold Luster, 61, has been charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action following the death of his 26-year-old son, Kevin M. Ward. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office stated that the fatal incident stemmed from Luster’s belief that his wife was unfaithful and his son, along with his fiancée, were withholding information about the alleged affair.
According to reports, Ward and his fiancée were visiting Luster for the holidays when tensions escalated. Luster reportedly accused them of knowing about the affair, leading to threats during the argument. Ward’s fiancée told authorities that Luster warned her, saying, “Do you want to get shot?” before leaving to retrieve a firearm.
As the situation deteriorated, Ward instructed his fiancée to get him a knife, leave the premises, and “call 911 if something happened.” She complied but overheard the escalating argument between father and son. When Ward allegedly confronted Luster, saying, “You’re not going to shoot her,” Luster responded, “You want to get shot instead?” Moments later, she witnessed Luster shoot Ward in the head, causing him to collapse.
Surveillance footage from a neighbor’s security camera reportedly captured the horrifying moment Luster shot his son.
Luster was arrested on-site and is being held without bond at the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Jail. Authorities continue to investigate the case, which has left a family shattered and a community reeling.
This tragic incident highlights the devastating consequences of unresolved anger and violence within families. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic conflict, resources are available to provide support and intervention.
