This Best of the NPJ for 2022 story was originally published on March 8, 2022.
The Natchitoches Police Department is investigating a shooting that took place Friday evening on University Parkway near the Highway 1 By-Pass.
On March 4, 2022 around 6:37 p.m., officers with the Natchitoches Police Department, deputies with the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office and officers with the University Police Department responded to 3000 block of University Parkway in reference to an individual being shot. Upon officers arrival they located a person that was struck several times by gunfire. As a result of their injuries that person was airlifted to a hospital in Rapides Parish and is listed in critical but stable condition.
While on scene officers were able to make contact with several witnesses. Witnesses were able to tell officers that the incident began when one of the parties involved was almost hit by a car in the business parking lot. This caused both parties involved to exchange words that led to a physical altercation inside store and in the parking lot. After the physical altercation one of the individuals involved returned to his vehicle and brandished a firearm which led to both participants exchanging gunfire.
Investigators spoke with one of the individuals involved with the shooting and are scheduled to meet with the other party once their condition at the hospital improves.
This is an ongoing investigation and the Natchitoches Police Department will release more details as they become available.
If you would like to report suspicious activity please contact the Natchitoches Police Department at (318) 352-8101 or if you have additional information in regards to this investigation please contact Detective Trent Perritt at (318) 238-3914. Remember all information given shall remain confidential.
How to report an anonymous tip via Natchitoches Crime Stoppers:
You can also report a tip anonymously by calling Natchitoches Crime Stoppers at (318) 238-2388. All tips remain confidential and the caller can receive a cash reward up to $2,000 for the arrest of an offender.
