DISCLAIMER: ALL PERSONS ARE PRESUMMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe Anderson PIO/Opelousas Police Department
Phone: (337) 948-2513 Email: jdanderson@opelousaspd.com
Incident: Accidental Discharge Leading to Fatality
Date: May 25, 2024
Opelousas, LA – On May 25, 2024, at approximately 06:05 hours, the Opelousas Police Department (OPD) was notified by Opelousas General Hospital South Campus that a victim had arrived with a gunshot wound by private vehicle. Officers quickly responded and identified the incident location as the 100 block of Willard Lane.
Upon further investigation, it was determined that the victim, Isaiah Johnson, was in a room with Kylan Malone (19) when the firearm in Malone’s possession discharged, resulting in the fatal injury of Johnson. Malone has been charged with Negligent Homicide and Obstruction of Justice. It is important to note that Malone is considered innocent until proven guilty.
Chief Graig LeBlanc and the entire OPD extend their heartfelt prayers and condolences to the victim’s family and friends during this tragic time. “Our thoughts are with the Johnson family as they navigate through this incredibly difficult period,” said Chief LeBlanc.
Gun Safety Tips:
In light of this incident, the Opelousas Police Department would like to remind everyone of some essential gun safety tips to help prevent such tragedies:
- Always Treat a Gun as if it is Loaded: Never assume a firearm is unloaded. Always check and double-check.
- Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger: Do not touch the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
- Point the Gun in a Safe Direction: Always ensure the muzzle is pointed in a direction where an accidental discharge would not cause injury.
- Store Guns Safely: Keep firearms unloaded and locked up when not in use. Use a gun safe or a lockable cabinet, and ensure that ammunition is stored separately.
- Educate Everyone in the Household: Ensure that everyone in the home understands and follows gun safety rules. Never leave firearms unattended where they can be accessed by children or unauthorized individuals.
- Regularly Check Firearms: Ensure that all firearms are in good working condition and are properly maintained.
The Opelousas Police Department is committed to promoting gun safety to prevent future accidents. We urge all gun owners to take these tips seriously and to always prioritize safety.
For further information, please contact the Opelousas Police Department at (337) 948-250.
