Crime
School Teacher Laquana Sheppard Injured in New Orleans Terror Attack Seeks Community Support
Laquana Sheppard, a dedicated school teacher and mother, was among the victims injured in the tragic terror attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans during the New Year’s celebrations.
Her sister, Herbrinisha Sheppard, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to support Laquana as she recovers from severe injuries sustained during the incident.
“On New Year’s, my sister was part of the Bourbon Street terrorist attack,” Herbrinisha explained. “She’s currently in the hospital, recovering from this traumatic experience.”
Laquana’s injuries are significant enough to prevent her from returning to her role as a school teacher, a position she holds with great pride and love.
“She sustained severe injuries that keep her from returning to work as a loving school teacher,” Herbrinisha shared.
In addition to her professional life, Laquana is a devoted mother to her young daughter, adding another layer of urgency to her recovery and financial stability.
Herbrinisha emphasized that the funds raised will be sent directly to Laquana to help her navigate this challenging time, ensuring she can maintain stability as she undergoes her recovery.
“These funds will assist her in keeping her life somewhat stable through this critical recovery process,” Herbrinisha wrote.
She also urged the community to contribute by either donating or sharing the campaign to spread awareness.
The attack has left Laquana and her family reeling, but her sister remains hopeful that the kindness and generosity of others will help them through this trying time.
“Please help her out by donating or sharing her information. Everything is greatly appreciated!”
The GoFundMe campaign is active, and contributions of any size will directly support Laquana’s medical and living expenses as she works toward recovery.
This tragic incident has left many families, like the Sheppards, grappling with unimaginable challenges. The community’s support can make a meaningful difference in helping Laquana heal and rebuild her life.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) is investigating a series of shootings that occurred Wednesday night in Pahokee, culminating in a deputy-involved shooting.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office, and PBSO’s Violent Crimes Division are conducting parallel and joint reviews of the incident.
According to authorities, the violence began on Wednesday, February 25, at approximately 10:12 p.m., when 44-year-old Charles McCloud Jr. allegedly initiated a series of shootings at multiple locations throughout Pahokee over a roughly 40-minute span.
First Shooting – 171 Booker Place (10:12 p.m.)
McCloud allegedly shot two adult males at a residence located at 171 Booker Place.
Both victims were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Second Shooting – 8700 Block of Doveland Drive
Shortly afterward, multiple gunshots were reported in the 8700 block of Doveland Drive.
Although several rounds were fired, authorities confirmed that no individuals were struck during this incident.
Third Shooting – 750 Belle Glade Road
The third shooting occurred at a convenience store located at 750 Belle Glade Road.
An adult male was shot during this incident and transported for medical treatment. Officials report the victim is expected to survive.
While responding to the reported gunfire on Doveland Drive and conducting a preliminary investigation, a PBSO deputy was securing the area with crime scene tape when McCloud allegedly drove a black GMC SUV directly at the deputy.
Authorities state that McCloud struck the deputy with the vehicle, pushing him approximately 40 feet. After exiting the SUV armed with a firearm, McCloud allegedly attempted to shoot the injured deputy.
In response, the deputy discharged his service weapon, striking McCloud. A second PBSO deputy also discharged his firearm during the encounter. McCloud was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The injured deputy sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment at St. Mary’s Medical Center.
According to PBSO, Charles McCloud Jr. had an extensive criminal history, including prior charges for Riot, Resisting an Officer with Violence, Armed Robbery, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Narcotics Equipment/Possession, and Escape or Attempted Escape from a county facility.
In accordance with standard agency policy, the deputy involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
The FDLE, the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office, and PBSO’s Violent Crimes Division continue to actively investigate all aspects of the shootings, including the deputy-involved use of force.
Additional information will be released as it becomes available.