In Loving Memory Of Martaevion Loston, 17 “A Life Full of Promise, Gone Too Soon”
SHREVEPORT, La. — The Shreveport community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of 17-year-old Martaevion Loston, a bright and beloved teenager whose life was tragically cut short during what was meant to be a night of celebration and unity. On Tuesday evening, October 7, 2025, gunfire erupted at A.B. Palmer Park, during a National Night Out event — an annual gathering intended to promote peace, neighborhood safety, and collaboration between law enforcement and residents.
The Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office has confirmed that Martaevion was the victim of the fatal shooting. According to authorities, shots rang out around 7:30 p.m. near the 500 block of East 79th Street, just off Line Avenue. Witnesses described scenes of panic as families, children, and community members fled for safety.
Emergency responders quickly arrived and found Martaevion suffering from gunshot wounds. He was transported to Ochsner LSU Health Hospital, where despite the best efforts of medical staff, he was pronounced deceased at 7:52 p.m.
What began as a night dedicated to unity and safety — meant to strengthen relationships between residents and law enforcement — ended in tragedy, leaving a community reeling and searching for answers.
A Beloved Teen Remembered
Those who knew Martaevion Loston describe him as a fun-loving, kind, and determined young man, someone who was full of potential and promise. At just 17, he was navigating the exciting, uncertain path between youth and adulthood, filled with dreams of a bright future.
Friends and teachers at his high school remember him as a student who was always smiling, respectful, and eager to lend a hand. He loved sports, music, and spending time with his close-knit circle of friends and family. His energy was infectious — the kind that could light up a room and make even the toughest days feel a little lighter.
Family members say Martaevion had big plans for his life. He dreamed of making a difference — whether through sports, mentorship, or helping his younger siblings find their own paths. He was described as a “protector,” someone who looked out for others and had a heart bigger than most his age.
“He was our sunshine,” a family member shared. “Martaevion had a smile that could change your whole day. He didn’t deserve this — none of these kids do.”
A Community in Shock
The tragedy has sent ripples of grief throughout Shreveport. A.B. Palmer Park, once a symbol of community togetherness, has now become a painful reminder of a life lost too soon.
City leaders, pastors, and neighbors have gathered in the days since, holding vigils and prayer circles near the park’s playground, where candles, flowers, and balloons now mark the spot in remembrance of Martaevion.
Local residents are calling for peace and change, emphasizing the devastating impact that gun violence continues to have on Shreveport’s youth. For many, this shooting hits especially hard because of the event’s purpose — to promote community safety and unity.
“National Night Out is supposed to bring us together,” one community member said. “Instead, we’re mourning another child. We can’t let this keep happening.”
Investigation Ongoing
The Shreveport Police Department continues to investigate the shooting. As of now, no arrests have been made, and authorities are urging anyone who was at A.B. Palmer Park that evening to come forward with information that could lead to justice for Martaevion.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the official cause and manner of death. Detectives with the Violent Crimes Unit are reviewing evidence and witness statements, while community leaders plead for cooperation from the public.
“Someone out there knows what happened,” a police spokesperson said. “This was a senseless act that took the life of a young man who had everything ahead of him. We need the community’s help to bring closure to his family.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Shreveport Police Investigations or Caddo Crime Stoppers at (318) 673-7373. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and rewards may be available for information leading to an arrest.
A City Mourns a Son
Martaevion Loston’s death marks Shreveport’s 31st homicide of 2025, and the 36th overall in Caddo Parish, reflecting a heartbreaking trend that has left families and neighborhoods scarred by violence. But beyond the numbers, Martaevion’s story is deeply personal — a reminder that every statistic represents a loved one, a dream, and a life that mattered.
In the wake of his passing, family, friends, and mentors are focusing on honoring his life and legacy. Plans for a memorial service and candlelight vigil are underway, giving the community a space to gather, remember, and recommit to the fight against youth violence.
Gone, But Never Forgotten
Though his time on earth was brief, Martaevion’s impact will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His laughter, kindness, and spirit will forever echo in the hallways of his school, on the basketball courts where he played, and in the hearts of his grieving family.
“We refuse to let his name be forgotten,” one family member said. “We will speak his name, celebrate his life, and fight for the justice he deserves.”
As the Shreveport community mourns this tremendous loss, may Martaevion’s light continue to guide and inspire others to seek peace, compassion, and change.
Rest in peace, sweet Martaevion.
Forever 17. Forever loved.
