On July 16, 2023 just after 11:30 A.M. officers with the Opelousas Police Department responded to a disturbance in the 600 Blk. of Kim Dr. The subsequent investigation revealed that several parties were involved in a physical confrontation. At some point during the disturbance a person later identified as Mr. Richard Birotte age 57 of Opelousas, La. produced a handgun and struck another party involved in the conflict. During the assault the firearm in the possession of Mr. Birotte discharged. No one was struck by the gunfire. Mr. Birotte was arrested on the following charges:
- Aggravated Assault
- Illegal discharge of a weapon
- Illegal carrying of a weapon.
Several other parties involved in the disturbance were cited for disturbing the peace by fighting. No serious injuries were reported as a result of the disturbance.
