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.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.