Shreveport Man Convicted in Tragic Hit-and-Run Case
SHREVEPORT, La. — In a heart-wrenching turn of events that has left the community in shock, a local man has been convicted of manslaughter and various firearms charges in connection with a deadly incident that claimed the lives of a mother and her young daughter. The conviction came down on November 6, 2024, following a brief jury deliberation that lasted about an hour.
The Case That Gripped Shreveport
Terrance Malik Dangerfield, a 26-year-old resident of Shreveport, faced a jury in Caddo District Court presided over by District Judge Donald E. Hathaway Jr. The jury found him guilty of two counts of manslaughter, one count of possession of a firearm with a controlled dangerous substance (a second offense), and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The tragic events leading to Dangerfield’s conviction unfolded on January 10, 2023, when he was attempting to evade law enforcement. The situation escalated dangerously as Dangerfield drove at high speeds along state Highway 3132, exhibiting reckless behavior. When police attempted to pull him over, he ran a red light, slamming into Faith Alexander’s vehicle, which held her 4-year-old daughter.
A Community Mourns
The violent collision took place at the intersection of Highway 3132 and Walker Road, resulting in the untimely deaths of 31-year-old Faith and her innocent young daughter. This incident has undoubtedly left a deep scar on the Shreveport community as friends, family, and neighbors mourn the loss of two precious lives.
During the trial, prosecutors painted a vivid picture of that fateful day, calling upon 14 witnesses to provide compelling evidence against Dangerfield. Their testimonies were crucial in establishing the sequence of events that led to the crash and the gut-wrenching aftermath of that day.
Charge After Charge
In addition to the manslaughter convictions, Dangerfield’s car was discovered to contain approximately two pounds of marijuana and two firearms. His actions that day have left many in the community wondering about the challenges of street violence and reckless driving.
Dangerfield is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on December 12, 2024. Under Louisiana’s laws, the prosecutor’s office plans to file a multiple offender bill for sentencing enhancement. Should Dangerfield be classified as a fourth-time felony offender, he faces severe penalties, including a sentence ranging from 40 years to life for each count of manslaughter.
The Broader Impact
The case has sparked discussions around road safety and the need for effective measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Many residents have voiced their concerns about how such reckless behavior can endanger lives and the critical importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions behind the wheel.
As the community rallies to support the families affected by this tragedy, the hope remains that justice will truly be served when Dangerfield is sentenced. Many are looking ahead, hoping that this case will prompt changes in awareness about safe driving, particularly in areas heavily populated by families.
In the wake of this conviction, Shreveport has been reminded of the fragility of life and the lasting effect of one reckless decision. The heartache felt by the victims’ families is a powerful reminder for us all to cherish our loved ones and ensure we make safe, responsible choices in our daily lives.
