On August 2, 2023 just before 8:30 P.M. officers with the Opelousas Department were dispatched to investigate a shooting in the area of the 1300 Blk. of Henry St. As officers were responding to the call an officer who was in the nearby area in an unmarked unit observed a vehicle driving erratically. The officer followed the vehicle and notified other patrol units.
Upon trying to conduct a traffic stop of the vehicle the vehicle failed to stop and led officers on a brief pursuit. During the pursuit an assault style weapon was thrown from the vehicle that was later recovered by assisting officers. Officers were eventually able to get the vehicle stopped and detain 2 of 3 suspects that were in the vehicle. A 3rd suspect fled on foot and eluded capture.
The subsequent investigation revealed that an undetermined conflict led to possibly two groups engaging in gunfire in the 1300 Blk of Henry St. One of the apprehended persons was allegedly on one side of the parties exchanging gunfire.
Officers recovered (2) firearms during the investigation and several spent casings. As of this time no one is believed to have been injured as a result of the shooting. Officers arrested 22 year old Lajavian Fontenot of Center St. New Iberia, La. on the following charges.
- (3) counts of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder
- Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property
- Illegal Use of Weapons or dangerous instrumentalities
- Aggravated Flight
Additional arrest in the case are expected and the investigation is ongoing.
Opelousas Police ask anyone with any information related to this shooting 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 $2500.00 cash reward.
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
