In the early evening of Tuesday, November 4, 34-year-old Edward “JP” Ponder was found suffering from multiple stab wounds near the intersection of Robin Street and Bradford Street in Albany, New York. Around 7:30 p.m., officers from the Albany Police Department responded to reports of a stabbing. Upon arrival, they located Edward near the roadway, critically injured. Emergency crews from the Albany Fire Department and EMS arrived and administered life-saving efforts, including CPR on scene. Despite those efforts, Edward was pronounced dead at the scene, and the incident has been classified by police as a homicide.
Friends, family and neighbours are grappling with the shock of losing someone described as vibrant, caring and full of warmth. A GoFundMe page titled “Help Lay Edward ‘JP’ Ponder to Rest” was set up by loved ones to assist with funeral and memorial costs. According to the fundraiser, Edward’s passing has left his circle “devastated,” and the family appeals to the community to share the page as well as donate if possible.
The Albany Police Detective Division has not yet announced any arrests and the investigation remains active. Officials are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information to come forward. The contact number given is (518) 462-8039; anonymous tips can also be submitted through Capital Region Crime Stoppers via the P3 Tips app.
Those who knew Edward say he had a personality that lit up a room. He is remembered for his laughter, generosity, and a genuine interest in making others smile. In one heartfelt description on the fund-raiser page, he is called “a character but he had a loving soul who brought laughter, warmth, and light to everyone who knew him.”
Local residents say the neighbourhood is tighter-knit than ever in the wake of the tragedy, pulling together to support Edward’s loved ones. Candlelight vigils and shared messages of remembrance are already underway, and many note that the loss of such a positive presence as Edward’s leaves a void that will be hard to fill.
As the investigation continues, the hope is two-fold: that Edward’s life will be honoured and remembered for the impact he made, and that the person or persons responsible will be held accountable. In the meantime, the community stands united in sorrow, and in the commitment to supporting his family during this heartbreak. Edward’s spirit lives on in the stories shared, the memories held dear, and the collective kindness of a community rallying together.