The family and friends of Chris Gradoville, a former standout catcher for the Creighton Bluejays, continue to mourn his tragic death. Gradoville’s murder on September 30, 2021, has left a void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. This article explores the remarkable legacy of Chris Gradoville, the details of the crime scene, the legal proceedings surrounding the case, and the lasting impact he has had on the Creighton and Omaha communities. Despite the passage of almost two years, justice remains elusive, leaving his loved ones yearning for closure.
The Legacy of Chris Gradoville
Chris Gradoville’s impact on the Creighton Bluejays baseball team and the Omaha community was profound and enduring. As a standout catcher from 2004 to 2007, he led the Bluejays to NCAA Regional appearances in 2005 and 2007, leaving an indelible mark on the program’s history. Those seasons remain atop Servais’ win column with 48 and 45 wins respectively. Gradoville played a total of 183 games for the Bluejays, starting 153 contests, and his contributions were instrumental in the team’s success.
After his collegiate career, Gradoville pursued a professional baseball career, working his way through the Texas Rangers’ minor-league system. From rookie ball in 2007 to reaching the Triple-A Oklahoma City RedHawks in 2010, Gradoville’s determination, skill, and hard work were evident throughout his journey in baseball, and he left a lasting impression on those he played with and against.
Following his retirement from professional baseball, he focused on sports performance and injury treatment, utilizing his expertise in fitness and health to benefit first responders through his initiative, Tactical Training Solution, LLC. His impact extended beyond athletics, making a difference in the lives of first responders.
In June 2020, Chris and his wife Nikki decided to move back to Omaha. Gradoville joined Creighton University’s baseball staff as the director of baseball operations, further deepening his connection with the Bluejays program. His presence on the staff was described by Creighton Bluejays Coach Ed Servais as invaluable, as he was known for being a great man and a dedicated teammate. Chris’s willingness to lend a helping hand made him an invaluable asset to not only the team but also the entire Creighton community.
The Crime Scene and Investigation
Tragedy struck when Chris Gradoville, aged 37, was shot dead near 61st and Pratt streets in Omaha. The police report revealed that he had just completed maintenance work after selling a property when he was ambushed and fatally shot by Ladell Thornton. Officers found Gradoville lying in a yard with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the efforts of Omaha Fire Department medics, Gradoville was pronounced dead at the scene. The prosecutor believed that Thornton shot Gradoville at least 12 times.
The senseless violence of the crime shocked the community and shattered the lives of Gradoville’s loved ones.
The suspect, Ladell Thornton, has been charged with first-degree murder and other weapons charges in connection with Gradoville’s death. However, there is no word on the motive behind the crime. The case has been hindered by Ladell Thornton’s mental incompetency. At multiple court appearances, Thornton has been declared unfit to stand trial due to his mental state. This has been a source of frustration and prolonged pain for Chris Gradoville’s family and the Omaha community as justice continues to elude them.
Legal Proceedings and Frustration
Ladell Thornton’s mental incompetence has proven to be a significant obstacle in moving the case forward towards justice. Despite the charges against him, on May 1, Thornton was once again declared unfit for trial, marking the fifth time in the past year. The reasons behind his incompetence include a letter in which Thornton wrote that “I am a God”. During prior evaluations, a judge stated that there is a substantial chance Thornton will become competent within a reasonable amount of time, but the uncertainty surrounding his mental state has delayed any progress. The next review of Thornton’s competency is scheduled for July 5.
According to court documents, until Thornton is deemed mentally fit, he will be committed to the Lincoln Regional Center. This uncertainty raises significant questions about when Chris Gradoville’s family and the Omaha community will see the justice they have been waiting for. Now the question is not about ‘if the Thornton will stand a trial’, but ‘when Thornton will stand a trial.’
It is a frustrating and disheartening situation that has tested the patience and resolve of
everyone involved.
Remembering Chris Gradoville and Community Support
Despite the absence of justice, the memory of Chris Gradoville continues to be cherished by the Creighton and Omaha communities. Following his untimely death, his former teammates, coaches, and the Creighton community expressed their devastation and paid tribute to Gradoville’s character and contributions. The Creighton community described him as a great teammate, an alumnus, and a remarkable individual who embodied the best qualities of being a BlueJay. His impact on the baseball program and the community as a whole was immeasurable.
Additionally, Omaha F-3, a fitness group of men that Chris was a part of, honored his memory and extended their support to the Gradoville family. Through their actions, they demonstrated the close-knit nature of the community and their commitment to helping one another during difficult times.
Nikki Gradoville, Chris’s wife, expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support from the Creighton community and Chris’s teammates. Their care and assistance have provided solace to Nikki and her family during this difficult time.
The murder of Chris Gradoville remains an open wound for his family, friends, and the Omaha community. Despite the legacy he left behind and the profound impact he made, justice has been elusive. Two years have passed since his death, and Ladell Thornton’s mental incompetency has prolonged the resolution of this heart-breaking case and deepened the anguish and frustration of those seeking closure. The hope for justice remains, however, as evaluations indicate the potential for Thornton to become competent to stand trial. The Creighton and Omaha communities will continue to remember Chris Gradoville’s tremendous legacy and remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice, determined to honor his memory and find closure in this tragic chapter.
By: Heena Parveen
