Officer-Involved Shooting Under Investigation in Downtown Shreveport
SHREVEPORT, La. — A tense and fast-developing situation unfolded in downtown Shreveport on Sunday, May 18, 2025, when officers responded to reports of an armed individual near the intersection of Marshall Street and Crockett Street. The incident, which occurred at approximately 1:49 p.m., resulted in an officer-involved shooting that is now under active investigation.
Initial Response and Reports
According to preliminary information released by the Shreveport Police Department, patrol officers were dispatched to the area following an emergency call that reported a person carrying a weapon and exhibiting suspicious behavior. The nature of the initial call has not yet been fully disclosed, but law enforcement officials confirmed that the situation escalated shortly after officers arrived on scene.
Multiple witnesses reported hearing a series of gunshots ring out in the early afternoon, followed by a visible police presence, including numerous marked units and a perimeter being set up around the location. Several roads near the intersection were blocked off as investigators began collecting evidence.
Witness Accounts and Community Concern
Eyewitness accounts circulating on social media and among local residents describe the suspect as a man frequently seen in downtown Shreveport, often walking the streets with rags or cloth tied around his arms—a familiar presence to many in the area. Some described him as nonviolent but possibly struggling with mental health issues. These observations, while unconfirmed, have fueled conversations online and within the community about how such incidents are handled, especially when they involve individuals known to be vulnerable or experiencing crises.
The suspect’s identity and current medical condition have not been officially confirmed. It is also unclear how many shots were fired or what specifically transpired in the moments leading up to the shooting.
Official Statement and Investigation
In a brief statement released Sunday evening, the Shreveport Police Department confirmed that an officer discharged their weapon during the incident and that the case is now being investigated by the department’s Internal Affairs Division in coordination with outside agencies to ensure transparency. As per department policy, the officer involved has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
“We understand that any incident involving the use of force by our officers demands a thorough and impartial investigation,” said SPD Public Information Officer Sgt. Ashley Thompson. “We are committed to determining exactly what happened and to keeping the public informed as more verified details become available.”
No officers were reported injured in the incident.
Community Reaction and the Broader Context
The incident has sparked both concern and curiosity among downtown business owners, residents, and visitors. Some have expressed unease about the presence of firearms and escalating police interactions in public areas, while others have called for more mental health resources and de-escalation training for law enforcement.
Several local organizations, including civil rights groups and advocacy organizations for mental health and homelessness, have called for a transparent investigation and the release of any available body camera footage to help clarify the events that led to the shooting.
What Happens Next
Authorities are urging anyone with video footage or additional information related to the incident to come forward. Community members can contact the Shreveport Police Department directly or submit anonymous tips.
As this is an ongoing and developing investigation, more details are expected to be released in the coming days. Louisiana Breaking News and other local outlets will continue to provide updates as they are confirmed by law enforcement.
This shooting marks yet another chapter in the ongoing national conversation about the intersection of policing, public safety, and mental health, particularly when involving individuals well known to their communities.
This story is developing. Stay with Louisiana Breaking News for continued coverage and verified updates.