Lake Arthur, LA – May 7, 2025 — Community Reels After Tragic Shooting of Local Teen
A small, close-knit community in Lake Arthur, Louisiana, is grappling with heartbreak and disbelief after the tragic shooting death of a young girl, Nayomie Fontenot, a junior high student at the James Ward Center for Excellence in Jennings. The senseless act has led to the arrest of a local man now facing a murder charge, and the victim’s family is left searching for answers amid unimaginable grief.
According to Jeff Davis Parish Sheriff Kyle Miers, the shooting occurred in the early morning hours, and authorities responded quickly to the scene. While no one else was injured, the investigation remains active and more charges could be forthcoming as new details emerge.
Fontenot’s mother, Loretta Young, is struggling to process the devastating loss. Through her tears, she spoke about the moment she learned of her daughter’s death—a moment forever etched in her memory.
“It was one something in the morning when the police came beating on the door. I woke up. I thought I did something wrong,” Young recounted. “He was like, ‘We need to talk to you.’ He set me on the couch and that’s when he told me Nayomie was killed. And I asked how and he told me she was shot in the back of the head.”
The pain in Young’s voice was clear as she tried to make sense of what happened. “He didn’t have to kill her. That’s what my main thing is. I’m devastated. He was two times bigger than her…he didn’t have to kill her.”
The young girl’s sudden death has shaken not only her family but the entire school community. Superintendent of Schools John Hall confirmed Nayomie was a student at the James Ward Center for Excellence and shared his condolences. “This is a terrible tragedy for our school and our students. We are mourning alongside her family.”
Counselors have been made available to students and staff, as the school community tries to cope with the trauma of losing one of their own.
In the days since the shooting, a growing number of residents have gathered in support of Nayomie’s family. Vigils have been held and tributes shared on social media, painting a picture of a young girl who was full of potential, laughter, and love.
The accused shooter, whose identity has not yet been released pending formal charges and court proceedings, remains in custody. Authorities have not released a motive, though they have indicated the investigation is still in its early stages and additional charges could be filed.
As Lake Arthur tries to find its footing after this profound loss, the community is calling for justice and healing. For Loretta Young, however, no outcome can bring back her daughter. “All I can do now is pray and ask God to give me strength. She was my baby,” she said.
The sheriff’s office is urging anyone with information about the case to come forward as they continue to piece together the events that led to Nayomie’s tragic death.