Crime
Lafayette LA high school student Alaya Christian killed in shooting during Mamou Mardi Gras concert
Two separate shootings at Mardi Gras concerts in Mamou have left two teenagers dead and 14 others wounded, authorities confirmed.
Among the victims killed was Alaya Christian, an honor student at Lafayette Renaissance Charter High School.
Christian was not only a high-achieving student but also a member of the school’s softball team and student council.
In a statement, school officials expressed their grief, saying she will be “deeply missed.”
The violence unfolded amid what was supposed to be a night of celebration.
On Fat Tuesday, a large crowd had gathered to enjoy the festivities when, within seconds, gunfire from a fully automatic weapon sent hundreds fleeing for their lives.
The shooting took place during a performance by zydeco musician Chris Ardoin, who later commented on the tragic events.
This latest incident follows another shooting that occurred on Monday, where three people were wounded in a separate act of violence at the festival.
Authorities are still investigating whether the two incidents are connected.
According to Mamou Police Chief Pat Hall, responding officers arrived at a chaotic scene, where they found multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
“When we all came up on the scene, the officers there, we saw several people injured.
Two individuals succumbed to their injuries, two remain in critical condition at Lafayette General, and the remaining victims are receiving medical treatment,” Chief Hall stated.
Law enforcement officials are actively investigating the motive behind the shootings, as well as potential suspects.
As of now, no arrests have been made.
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Mamou Police Department or Evangeline Parish Crime Stoppers.
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Hundreds of students and community members are mourning the death of Erik Spencer, who was fatally shot at a shopping center in Jefferson City on November 1.
Authorities have confirmed Spencer’s death but have not yet released details regarding the individual responsible for the shooting.
Multiple witness accounts suggest the shooter may have been a white male, reportedly described by some as a possible off-duty police officer.
According to witnesses, the incident occurred as Erik and his girlfriend were leaving a store when a verbal argument broke out between them.
The male individual allegedly intervened, despite being told that the situation was under control.
Moments later, witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, striking Erik.
Friends and witnesses at the scene stated that Erik did not pose any threat to the shooter and that the confrontation escalated unnecessarily.
Law enforcement agencies have not confirmed the shooter’s identity, whether he is affiliated with law enforcement, or if he has been detained or turned himself in.
The Jefferson City Police Department and local investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Community members have since gathered for vigils and memorials to honor Erik’s memory as the investigation remains active and ongoing.