Crime
Christopher Marquees arrested and charged with the murder of 15-year-old Maquan Sam in Ville Platte
Marquees is currently being held on a $75,000 bond.
A tragic shooting incident occurred early Thursday morning in Ville Platte, Louisiana, resulting in the death of a 15-year-old Maquan Sam.
Christopher Marquees, 31, has been arrested and charged with negligent homicide in connection with the shooting.
Ville Platte Police responded to a call about the incident at a residence on N. Morein Street.
Upon arrival, they found the teenage victim deceased.
Marquees is currently being held on a $75,000 bond.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Ville Platte Police Department at 337-363-1316.
Ville Platte High School has shared a heartfelt tribute, mourning the loss of their beloved student, Maquan Sam. Known affectionately as “Quan,” Maquan brought joy to the campus with his radiant smile and warm heart, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he encountered. As we navigate this challenging time, we find comfort in his spirit, the friendships he formed, and the memories he leaves behind. Our deepest condolences go out to Maquan’s family, friends, and everyone touched by this loss. He will be dearly missed, forever loved, and always remembered in our hearts. Long Live Quan.
BATON ROUGE, LA – March 12, 2025 – A high-speed crash on LA 30 near Bluebonnet Boulevard resulted in the deaths of 24-year-old Jeremiah Downing and 22-year-old Hunter LaGrange, both of Hahnville, Louisiana.
The Louisiana State Police Troop A is investigating the fatal incident, which occurred shortly after 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday evening.
Preliminary reports indicate that St. Gabriel Police officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a 2013 Chevrolet Camaro, driven by Downing, for speeding on LA 30.
However, Downing refused to comply and continued westbound at a high rate of speed in an apparent attempt to evade law enforcement.
As Downing approached the intersection at Bluebonnet Boulevard, a 2016 GMC Sierra traveling east on LA 30 was attempting to make a left turn onto Bluebonnet.
Investigators determined that Downing disregarded a red light at the intersection, resulting in a head-on collision with the GMC Sierra.
Jeremiah Downing (driver of the Camaro) was unrestrained at the time of the crash.
He sustained critical injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Hunter LaGrange (passenger in the Camaro) was also unrestrained and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the GMC Sierra was wearing a seatbelt and sustained serious injuries.
They were transported to a local hospital for treatment.
At this time, it is unclear whether impairment played a role in the crash.
However, standard toxicology samples have been collected and will be analyzed as part of the ongoing investigation.
Louisiana State Police urge motorists to prioritize safety by obeying traffic signals, avoiding reckless driving, and always wearing a seatbelt.
Additional details will be provided as the investigation progresses.