Shreveport Grapples with Recent Violence: Community on Alert

Street scene in Shreveport with residents discussing safety.

News Summary

Shreveport, Louisiana, is facing a wave of violence following two fatal shootings within days. Local authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant as the community tries to cope with the alarming incidents. The first shooting involved an elderly man at a bus stop, while the second involved a delivery driver outside a Walgreens. Police are actively searching for suspects in both cases and emphasize the importance of community awareness.

Shreveport Grapples with Recent Violence: Community on Alert

In Shreveport, Louisiana, the streets have witnessed a tragic wave of violence over the last few days, leaving the community reeling. With two fatal shootings occurring in quick succession, local law enforcement is urging residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activity.

First Incident: A Chilling Encounter at a Bus Stop

The first shooting took place on the afternoon of January 23, around 2 p.m., across from a Popeyes restaurant. An elderly man, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, was shot in the chest while waiting at a bus stop. Emergency crews quickly arrived on the scene, but despite their best efforts, the man was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

The quick response from more than a dozen units from the Shreveport Police Department, including homicide detectives, underscores the seriousness of this incident. Law enforcement worked diligently to gather evidence and piece together the events that unfolded. The suspect, identified as 25-year-old DeAndre Webb, fled the scene but was apprehended shortly afterward. Webb now faces charges for second-degree murder, marking a grim turn in what was already a tragic day for the victim’s family.

Second Incident: A Day Earlier at Walgreens

January 22 at about 10:20 a.m., another violent act shook the community. This time, the crime occurred at a Walgreens located at the corner of Line Avenue and Kings Highway. Delivery driver Billy Jamison suffered a fatal shot during what authorities believe was an attempted robbery. While walking to his vehicle in the Walgreens parking lot, he was confronted by an assailant, leading to the tragic incident.

In response to the shooting, Byrd High School, located just nearby, was placed on lockdown to ensure the safety of students and staff. This precautionary measure illustrates how interconnected our community is, with incidents like these impacting not just the victims but also the safety and well-being of families in the area.

The Search for a Suspect

Witnesses reported that the shooter escaped the scene in a white van that belonged to the victim. This vehicle was quickly confirmed as stolen, raising the stakes for local law enforcement. As a proactive measure, four schools in nearby Bossier City were placed on restricted movement while police conducted searches at Riverwood Apartments, hoping to locate the shooter.

The suspect, identified as Larry Lewis, is currently wanted for the Walgreens shooting and is considered armed and dangerous. He also has an outstanding warrant related to an unrelated incident, adding another layer of urgency to the ongoing situation. Caddo Crime Stoppers has stepped in, offering a generous reward of $5,000 for information leading to Lewis’s arrest.

Community Call to Action

In light of these alarming incidents, local police are urging the community to remain vigilant. It’s crucial for residents to lock their homes and vehicles, staying alert to any unusual behavior. If anyone has information about Larry Lewis or his whereabouts, authorities encourage them to contact Crime Stoppers without delay.

The atmosphere in Shreveport has notably shifted due to these violent occurrences, prompting a strong call for community solidarity and safety. As the investigation continues, many residents are left wondering: how can we foster a safer environment for our families and neighbors? With increased awareness and cooperation, there’s hope for a brighter and safer future for Shreveport.