Four Shot During Trail Ride Event in Natchitoches Parish, Victims Identified
Natchitoches Parish, LA – March 23, 2025
Authorities have confirmed the identities of four individuals shot during a violent incident at a trail ride event in Natchitoches Parish on Saturday night. Among the victims were a 22-year-old woman and two 16-year-old boys, leaving the community shaken as law enforcement works to uncover the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Chaos Unfolds at Large Trail Ride Gathering
The shooting occurred at approximately 8:30 PM on March 22, 2025, when Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies responded to reports of gunfire at a trail ride event near Catholic Lane in Clarence, Louisiana.
According to authorities, upon arrival, deputies encountered a chaotic scene, with over a thousand attendees present at the event. Emergency medical personnel, including the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS and Air EVAC Life Team helicopter, were quickly dispatched to assist victims and transport the injured to medical facilities.
Victims Identified
Law enforcement officials have now released the identities of the four victims involved in the shooting:
🔹 A 22-year-old woman, suffering from a non-life-threatening gunshot wound, transported to Natchitoches Regional Medical Center for treatment.
🔹 A 16-year-old boy, also suffering from a gunshot wound, was taken to a regional trauma center for further medical attention.
🔹 A second 16-year-old boy, who was privately transported to Natchitoches Regional Medical Center, reportedly suffered a non-life-threatening injury.
🔹 A 20-year-old man, who sustained a more serious gunshot wound, was airlifted to a regional trauma center for urgent care. His condition remains critical but stable, according to hospital officials.
Investigation Underway
Authorities are currently investigating the motive behind the shooting and whether the violence stemmed from a dispute among attendees. No suspects have been identified or arrested at this time, but detectives are actively following leads, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage and social media videos captured at the event.
The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office (NPSO) is urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling (318) 357-7830.
Community Reacts to the Violence
The Natchitoches Parish community is stunned and outraged by the shooting, as trail ride events are typically family-friendly gatherings meant for enjoying music, horseback riding, and socializing.
🔹 Local leaders and event organizers are calling for increased security measures at future events to prevent further tragedies.
🔹 Residents have expressed concerns about the growing trend of violence at large public gatherings, demanding more police presence and stricter regulations for event organizers.
🔹 Some community members have organized a candlelight vigil to show support for the victims and their families, while also raising awareness about the need to end gun violence in the area.
A Call for Justice
As the victims recover, their families and loved ones are seeking justice and answers. Law enforcement continues to work diligently to track down those responsible and ensure the safety of the community.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and authorities are expected to release further details as they develop.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office or submit a tip anonymously.