Crime
Wyatt Oser, 8th grader at Trist Middle School killed after accidental shooting in Sand Springs
The St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office is deeply saddened to report the accidental shooting death of a 13-year-old boy on Sunday night.
Sheriff James Pohlmann confirmed that deputies responded to a call around 11:30 pm at a residence located on the 4500 block of East St. Bernard Highway in Meraux.
The young man, identified as Wyatt Oser, an 8th grader at N.P. Trist Middle School, was found with a gunshot wound and rushed to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Investigators believe the shooting was accidental, as Wyatt was handling a firearm when it discharged.
Sheriff Pohlmann expressed his deepest condolences to Wyatt’s family and friends. “This is a tragic loss for the family and our entire community,” he stated.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this incredibly difficult time.”
N.P. Trist Middle School also released a statement on Facebook, mourning the loss of their student. The school will have their district crisis response team on campus this week, offering grief counseling and support for students and staff.
A Call for Gun Safety
Sheriff Pohlmann emphasized the importance of firearm safety in preventing such tragedies. “Keeping guns securely stored and out of reach, especially in homes with children or young adults, is one of the most effective ways to ensure safety,” he said.
The Sheriff stressed the use of gun safes or affordable gun locks, which can significantly reduce the risk of accidental discharges or unauthorized access. “By taking these simple precautions, you can help protect your loved ones and promote a safer community,” Sheriff Pohlmann concluded.
A Community in Mourning
A GoFundMe page has been created to support the Oser family during this difficult time.
Tuscaloosa, Ala. – A 41-year-old man has been charged with capital murder following a fatal shooting that claimed the life of a 62-year-old Tuscaloosa resident on Sunday afternoon.
According to the Tuscaloosa Police Department, officers responded to a residence in the 3200 block of 18th Street at approximately 4:00 p.m. on March 9 after receiving reports of a shooting.
Upon arrival, officers discovered Joseph Earl Miller, 62, deceased inside his home from apparent gunshot wounds.
The Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit took over the investigation and, after conducting interviews with family members, identified Andrew Wayne Hollie, 41, as the primary suspect.
According to family statements, Hollie had been involved in a relationship with Miller’s daughter and had reportedly threatened and abused both her and Miller in the days leading up to the shooting.
Initially, law enforcement was unable to locate Hollie. However, after gathering sufficient evidence, investigators obtained a capital murder warrant for his arrest.
Early Monday morning, the U.S. Marshals Task Force apprehended Hollie, and he was taken into custody.
He has been booked into the Tuscaloosa County Jail and is being held without bond.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities urge anyone with additional information to contact the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit.