The Natchitoches Police Department is investigating a homicide that occurred Saturday afternoon on Grace Avenue.

On May 9, 2026, around 5:22 p.m., officers with the Natchitoches Police Department were dispatched to the area of Grace Avenue and Dixie Street in reference to gunshots in the area.  Upon officers’ arrival they located an overturned vehicle in the 1400 block of Grace Avenue.  Inside of the vehicle officers found the victim, Michael Leslie (W/M, 20 y.o.a. of Many) suffering from several gunshot wounds.  Officers immediately began to render aid while other first responders were arriving to the area.  Michael Leslie was pronounced deceased by the Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office as a result of his injuries.  

Detectives and Officers spoke with several witnesses that led to the collection of additional physical and digital evidence.  All of the evidence recovered will be sent to the crime lab for additional analysis.

This investigation is ongoing 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 Davanta Stevenson at (318) 357-3814.  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 downloading the P3 Tips app on your smart phone or by calling Natchitoches Crime Stoppers at (318) 238-2388.  All tips remain confidential and the caller can receive a cash reward up to $5,000 for the arrest of an offender.