Police, Family Seek More Clues
BOBBY ARDOIN
St. Landry Now.com Editor
Opelousas city police investigators and family members during a Wednesday afternoon press conference requested continued help from the public in apprehending those responsible for the apparent drive-by 2024 shooting death of Chanterria “Macky” Albert.
Albert, a 23-year-old off duty deputy who worked for the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Department, was killed as she sat in a vehicle with another victim about 18 months ago in the 110 block of Park Avenue in Opelousas, according to authorities.
Those near the scene reported hearing at least 20 gunshots, as Albert died of her injuries. The male victim that Albert was with at the time of the shooting sustained injuries, but he has survived, police have said.
OPD investigator Bandon Harris said that video surveillance obtained near the scene of the shooting shows a vehicle moving past the crime scene.
Harris said however that police are unwilling at this point to divulge any more clues in connection with the vehicle that has been seen on the video.
“We are still gathering information and following leads in this case, but (police) still need help. That’s why we are asking the public to come to us and provide any information that they might have in connection with this case,” added Harris.
Harris added that investigators don’t believe that Albert was the intended target of the persons involved.
Rechelle Milburn, an aunt of Macky Albert, was one of several family members who spoke at the press conference.
“We’re asking people out there to see us right now and feel what we feel. Our family is never going to be the same and if you have a heart, please reach out and do something,” Milburn added.
Cherika Albert, the mother of Macky Albert, appeared too emotionally distraught to speak to the media that gathered for the press conference held at police headquarters on Court Street.
Two sisters, Ambreshia Godwin and Tristanie Albert, also appeared at the press conference alongside their grandmother, Rosa Milburn.
Information officer Joseph Anderson said he decided to hold the press conference in order to rekindle public awareness and perhaps provide more information for the fatal shooting investigation.
Anderson said he also wanted to display to the public the emotional impact on the family members of Macky Albert.
“We want the public to see firsthand what gun violence does to a family. It’s time for somewhere out there who has more information to say something if they know something,” Anderson said.
