Ascension Parish, LA – Arrest Made in Deadly Interstate 10 Shooting; 1 Dead, Several Injured, More Arrests Expected
ASCENSION PARISH, LA – A violent interstate shooting early Sunday morning has led to the arrest of a 19-year-old suspect, with more arrests expected in what authorities are calling a targeted attack following a night of escalating tensions among local youth.
Detectives with the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office (APSO) Violent Crimes Unit have confirmed the arrest of Jakiryn Johnson, 19, in connection with the deadly shooting that occurred on westbound I-10 around 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 8, 2025. Johnson has been charged with first-degree murder, three counts of attempted first-degree murder, illegal use of weapons, assault by drive-by shooting, and aggravated damage to property.
The incident unfolded when a vehicle carrying multiple male occupants was traveling westbound on I-10 near Gonzales. According to investigators, a white GMC Sierra approached the victims’ vehicle and opened fire, spraying bullets and striking three individuals inside. Two of the victims sustained critical injuries. The driver was able to exit the interstate and contact 911, leading deputies to the scene. All victims were rushed to a nearby hospital, where 20-year-old Dantrell Gibbs, of Donaldsonville, later died from his injuries.
Background and Investigation
The investigation quickly revealed that the violence had its roots in an earlier incident. Law enforcement learned that the individuals involved had attended a graduation celebration at the Gonzales Civic Center on Saturday evening. After the event, a crowd gathered at the nearby Waffle House and local businesses along Highway 30, a popular late-night hangout spot for area youth.
At some point during the night, an altercation occurred. Though the exact nature of the dispute remains under investigation, authorities believe this confrontation sparked the chain of events that would lead to a deadly drive-by shooting on the interstate.
Following the dispute, the suspects reportedly followed the victims onto the highway, where they launched a targeted attack from their vehicle. During the exchange, the victims are also believed to have returned fire, suggesting a shootout between the two vehicles. Detectives have since collected physical evidence and interviewed witnesses, leading to the swift identification of Johnson as a primary suspect.
On Monday, June 9, Johnson was arrested and booked into the Ascension Parish Jail. APSO officials stated that multiple individuals have been identified as persons of interest, and additional arrests are anticipated in the coming days.
Law Enforcement Response
The shocking level of violence has prompted immediate action from law enforcement officials. Sheriff Bobby Webre and Gonzales Police Chief Sherman Jackson held a press briefing to address community concerns and outline a coordinated response plan to prevent further escalation.
Webre emphasized that law enforcement visibility and intervention along the Highway 30 Corridor will be significantly increased. He announced the formation of a multi-jurisdictional task force that will include officers from APSO, the Gonzales Police Department, the narcotics division, and possibly outside agencies. Their mission will be to crack down on illegal activity, suppress gang violence, and provide a visible deterrent to those who think they can act with impunity.
“It’s going to consist of people with the Gonzales Police Department, APSO, our narcotics division, maybe some outside agencies coming in to participate in these multi-jurisdictional task forces,” Sheriff Webre said. “It’s not uncommon to do these things. It needs to happen and it needs to happen now.”
Community Impact and Call for Peace
The murder of Dantrell Gibbs has sent shockwaves through the Donaldsonville and Gonzales communities. Gibbs, only 20 years old, was described by friends and family as a vibrant young man with a bright future. His senseless death underscores the growing concerns over youth violence and gun-related crimes that have plagued the region.
Local leaders and community organizations are calling for unity, intervention programs, and support systems to steer at-risk youth away from violence. Social media has been flooded with condolences and pleas for peace, while law enforcement urges anyone with information about the shooting or the events leading up to it to come forward.
What’s Next
This investigation remains active and ongoing. Authorities are following several leads and believe more individuals will be arrested in connection with the shooting. Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or tips that may assist in resolving this case.
The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office is expected to provide updates as new developments arise. In the meantime, residents are asked to keep the family of Dantrell Gibbs in their thoughts and prayers during this painful time.
Tip Line: Anyone with information is asked to contact APSO at (225) 621-8300 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (225) 344-STOP (7867).