Shreveport Teen to Be Tried as an Adult in Tragic Drive-By Shooting
In a shocking turn of events, the city of Shreveport is reeling following the recent developments in a tragic case of violence that took place earlier this month. A fifteen-year-old boy, Rodnick DeMarquin Calhoun, finds himself facing very serious charges that could significantly change the course of his young life.
Details of the Incident
On November 4, 2024, around 2 a.m., an incident at the Hollywood Mini Mart store, located at the intersection of Jewella Avenue and Peyton Street, turned deadly. Calhoun was arrested in connection with a drive-by shooting that took the life of another teenager, Anthony Vinson Jr., who was also just 15 years old. This tragic event not only claims young lives but raises concerns in the community about youth violence.
As police investigated the scene, they discovered several spent shell casings near the bicycle that Vinson was riding at the time of the shooting. It is a heartbreaking image that underscores the reality of gun violence affecting our streets.
Legal Proceedings Begin
Fast forward to December 2, and the Caddo Parish District Attorney, James E. Stewart Sr., has made a significant decision. The DA’s office filed a Motion to Divest, effectively taking the case out of the juvenile court’s jurisdiction and opting to prosecute Calhoun as an adult. This means that a boy who has barely started his teenage journey now faces the possibility of adult criminal charges, specifically second-degree murder.
What’s Next for Calhoun?
As the legal wheels begin to turn, a District Court Judge, Chris Victory, has ordered Calhoun’s transfer from the Caddo Parish Juvenile Detention Center to the Caddo Correctional Center as he awaits trial. This is a significant move, demonstrating the gravity of the charges he faces. His bond hearing is scheduled for tomorrow, Thursday, December 5, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Victory. Community members and followers of the case will certainly be eager to learn how this hearing plays out and what the next steps will be.
Co-Defendant in the Case
Moreover, Calhoun is not alone in facing the legal repercussions of this tragedy. Another individual, a 19-year-old adult named Onterio Robinson, has also been arrested in connection with the slaying. The details about Robinson’s involvement remain under wraps as both cases proceed through the judicial system, but his presence adds another layer of complexity to this already tragic story.
The Impact on the Community
The death of Anthony Vinson Jr. has sent shockwaves through the Shreveport community, highlighting ongoing concerns about youth and gun violence. Parents are understandably worried, and conversations about safety in our neighborhoods are now more critical than ever. It’s a wake-up call to take proactive measures in protecting our youth and fostering a culture of peace.
As this case develops, all eyes will be on Shreveport, where everyone awaits justice for Anthony and answers regarding the troubling circumstances that led to such a heartbreaking event. The path ahead is uncertain, but one thing is clear: this story is far from over, and it serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community support in challenging times.
