Tragedy Strikes Shreveport: Two Cousins Fatally Shot

News Summary

A drive-by shooting in Shreveport on December 27, 2024, resulted in the tragic deaths of cousins Jakeva and Tristavian Datcher. The incident began at 10:24 p.m. as the young men were attacked upon arriving at a Cross Lake apartment complex. Despite immediate medical attention, both succumbed to their injuries shortly after. The shooting is part of a broader wave of violence in the city, marked by the investigation and arrests of three suspects linked to the crime. The Shreveport community is left mourning and looking for answers.

Tragedy Strikes Shreveport: Two Cousins Fatally Shot in Drive-By Shooting

In a heartbreaking incident, the city of Shreveport has encountered another dark chapter, as two young cousins lost their lives in a shocking drive-by shooting that occurred on December 27, 2024. Just as families were settling in for the night, the dramatic turn of events unfolded just before the clock struck eleven.

A Night of Violence

The chain of violence began at *10:24 p.m.* when the first shooting erupted in the 5600 block of South Lakeshore Drive. Cousins Jakeva Datcher, 21, and Tristavian Datcher, also 21, had just arrived at a Cross Lake apartment complex, accompanied by a friend in their SUV. As they stepped out of the vehicle, their night took a deadly turn when a burnt orange vehicle, suspected to be a Dodge Charger, approached them. Without any warning, two men inside the car started firing at them, leaving no chance for a quick escape.

Despite immediate medical assistance, the situation only worsened. Jakeva was pronounced dead at *10:36 p.m.*, and Tristavian succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward, at *11 p.m.*, after being transported to Ochsner LSU Health.

Second Shooting Linked to Party Altercation

The violence didn’t end there. Just a mere 30 minutes later, another shooting took place in the 500 block of Robinson Place, linked to a party being held in the area. A woman was shot in the thigh during what seemed to be an altercation. Early reports indicate that the weapon used in this second shooting was a *7.62-caliber rifle or pistol*. Thankfully, her injuries, while serious, were not life-threatening.

Investigation Leads to Arrests

As the night unfolded, Shreveport law enforcement worked quickly to piece together the events surrounding the tragic loss of Jakeva and Tristavian Datcher. The initial investigation indicated that the shooters from the first incident were likely *young males between the ages of 16 to 25*. However, as police efforts intensified, it wasn’t long before three suspects were apprehended: Alissa Rodgers, 18; Rufus Anderson, 20; and Deaiviantae Davis, 21. All three have been charged with *two counts of second-degree homicide* and are being held responsible for the tragic killings that shook the community.

The suspects were tracked down to a residence at *2231 W. College Street*, where they were taken into custody. Authorities from the Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office confirmed that both victims had been shot almost simultaneously, which only deepened the investigation’s urgency.

Community Reeling from Loss

This horrific incident marked the *50th and 51st homicides in Shreveport this year*, underscoring the pressing concerns of violence and safety in the area. The community is in mourning, grappling with the loss of two young lives that were snuffed out far too soon. Reports suggest the shooting may be related to a narcotics transaction, adding another layer of complexity to an already dire situation.

Local authorities are urging anyone with information regarding either of the shootings to come forward and assist in the investigation. Residents are encouraged to contact Caddo-Shreveport Crimestoppers at *(318) 673-7373* to share any tips or insights that could help bring justice to the Datcher family and make the streets safer for everyone.

Conclusion

As Shreveport grapples with this tragedy, it serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the critical need for community engagement to combat violence. Our thoughts are with the Datcher family and all those affected by this senseless act of aggression.