Crime
23-year-old Taylor Geter killed in shooting on E Dudley Drive in Shreveport
SHREVEPORT, Louisiana — Authorities have identified a 23-year-old man who was killed in a late-night shooting at a local park, marking another homicide in the city, according to the Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office.
The victim has been identified as Taylor Geter, 23, who was shot Sunday night, April 26, at a park in the 200 block of East Dudley Drive.
Officials confirmed that Geter was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 11:41 p.m.
The coroner’s office stated that Geter was positively identified through fingerprint comparison, and an autopsy has been ordered to determine the full extent of his injuries.
According to the Shreveport Police Department, officers responded to reports of a shooting at Waterside Park, where they found Geter suffering from a gunshot wound to the groin area.
Preliminary investigations reveal that the incident began as a physical altercation between two adult men near a basketball court.
After the fight had ended and the individuals were separated, a 15-year-old male—identified as the brother of one of the men involved—allegedly produced a firearm and fired at Geter.
Police confirmed that the teenage suspect has been taken into custody and is facing charges in connection with the homicide.
Due to his age, authorities have not released his identity.
Geter’s death marks Shreveport’s 18th homicide of the year, highlighting ongoing concerns about violent crime in the area.
Investigators continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses as part of the active case.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward as the investigation remains ongoing.
Crime
17-Year-Old Javohn Pitts Critically Injured in Accidental Shooting During FaceTime Call in Elsmere, Kentucky
A 17-year-old teenager, identified as Javohn Pitts, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head during an incident involving a handgun at a residence in Elsmere, Kentucky, on Saturday. Police say the shooting appears to have occurred while two juveniles were showing the firearm to others during a FaceTime call.
The incident prompted an emergency response in Northern Kentucky and left the teenager with potentially life-threatening injuries. He was transported by helicopter to a Cincinnati hospital, where he continues to receive medical treatment.
According to the Elsmere Police Department, officers were dispatched to a reported shooting in the 100 block of Garvey Avenue early Saturday afternoon.
When first responders arrived, they found Javohn Pitts suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, emergency personnel arranged for him to be airlifted to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Pitts remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to the information provided by police. Authorities have not released further details about his medical condition or prognosis.
During their investigation, police recovered a 9mm handgun from the residence.
Investigators believe the shooting happened while Pitts and another juvenile, who was acquainted with him, were displaying the handgun to other people during a FaceTime call. At some point during the incident, the firearm discharged, striking Pitts in the head.
Although the incident is being described as an apparent accidental shooting, authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and the events leading up to it.
A juvenile suspect was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. Police reported that the suspect was acquainted with Pitts and has been charged with second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.
Because the individual is a juvenile, authorities have not publicly released the suspect’s identity.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information about the incident may be released as authorities continue reviewing the evidence.
Police are asking anyone who may have information about the shooting to contact the Kenton County Emergency Communication Center at 859-356-3191 or the Elsmere Police Department at 859-474-4785.
Information from witnesses or anyone familiar with the circumstances may help investigators establish a clearer account of what happened inside the Garvey Avenue residence.
At just 17 years old, Javohn Pitts is facing a serious medical battle following the shooting. His critical condition has left those who care about him hoping for positive news as he receives treatment.
The incident is also a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with handling firearms, particularly when a weapon is displayed or handled without proper safety precautions. A firearm can discharge unexpectedly, with consequences that may permanently change lives.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with Javohn Pitts, his family, and everyone hoping for his recovery. May he receive the care and support he needs during this difficult time.