Opelousas Police have made an arrest in the March 27, 2023 homicide of 23 year old Roderick Aaron Jr. who was fatally shot near the intersection of Union & Franklin St. During the course of the investigation a 17 year old male juvenile was identified as a suspect in the shooting. In coordinated efforts with Acadiana area law enforcement agencies the 17 year old was taken into custody on April 1, 2023 and has been in police custody since his arrest in Lafayette Parish on that date for unrelated charges. The 17 year old was subsequently transferred to the St. Landry Parish Jail and was booked on the following charges:
- FIRST DEGREE MURDER
- ASSAULT BY DRIVE BY SHOOTING
- AGGRAVATED CRIMINAL DAMAGE TO PROPERTY
- Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle
- Illegal possession of a handgun by a juvenile
While an arrest has been made in this case, the investigation is ongoing. Additional details will not be released as to not compromise the continuing investigation.
Chief Leblanc would like to express his thanks to all the dedicated Opelousas Police Department employees that worked tirelessly to make this arrest happen and to thank all the assisting Law Enforcement Agencies that participated in this investigation. As always special thanks the members of the community that gave valuable information during the course of this investigation. The tide of senseless violence in our community will not be turned without the public’s support. The Opelousas Police Department implores the community to get involved and give information related to any criminal activity in our community, but especially those involving gun violence.
Opelousas Police ask anyone with any information related to this shooting or any other violent crime to contact the Opelousas Police Department at 337-948-2500, crimetips@opelousaspd.com or through Crime Stoppers (337-948-TIPS, www.stlandrycrimestoppers.com or by using the P3 mobile App.) Tipsters can remain anonymous. Tipsters can receive up to a $1000.00 cash reward
