Baton Rouge Police Investigating Fatal Shooting That Claimed Life of 23-Year-Old Zachary Lewis
BATON ROUGE, La. — A young man is dead, a family is shattered, and a community is once again grappling with the toll of gun violence after a fatal shooting unfolded in Baton Rouge on Sunday afternoon. The victim has been identified as 23-year-old Zachary Lewis, who was found shot and later died from his injuries despite emergency life-saving efforts.
A Quiet Afternoon Turns Deadly
According to officials with the Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD), officers responded to reports of gunfire shortly after 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 3, 2025, in a neighborhood off Plank Road, near the 4100 block of Mohican Street. When officers arrived on scene, they discovered Zachary Lewis suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Emergency medical personnel were immediately dispatched, and Lewis was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite the efforts of first responders and trauma doctors, Lewis was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Authorities later confirmed that the young man died from injuries consistent with a targeted shooting.
Investigation Underway
The BRPD Homicide Division is leading the investigation, and detectives are working diligently to uncover what led to the fatal gunfire. Preliminary reports indicate that the shooting may not have been random, though a definitive motive has not yet been established.
Officers canvassed the area on Sunday evening, speaking with residents, collecting surveillance footage, and searching for potential witnesses who may have seen the incident unfold or noticed anything suspicious in the moments leading up to it.
As of Monday morning, no suspects have been publicly identified or taken into custody. Police are urging anyone with information to step forward to assist in solving the case.
Remembering Zachary Lewis
Family and friends of Zachary Lewis gathered near the scene in a spontaneous vigil, lighting candles and sharing memories of a young man whose life was cut tragically short. Lewis, described by relatives as “kind, determined, and full of potential,” was a graduate of a local high school and had recently started working toward a career in the automotive trade.
“He was the kind of person who always made you laugh, no matter what you were going through,” said a cousin who asked not to be named. “Zach had big dreams. He didn’t deserve to go out like this.”
Grief poured out online as well, with social media flooded by posts mourning Lewis and demanding justice. Friends recalled his sense of humor, his passion for cars, and his deep loyalty to family.
Community on Edge
Sunday’s shooting adds to a growing list of violent incidents in Baton Rouge this year, further intensifying calls for action from local leaders and residents alike. Community activists have reiterated the need for violence prevention initiatives, stronger community-police partnerships, and investment in mental health and youth programs.
“This isn’t just about crime. It’s about trauma, poverty, opportunity, and community support,” said one local organizer. “Another mother lost her son today, and that should matter to all of us.”
A Plea for Information
The Baton Rouge Police Department is asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact their Homicide Division at (225) 389-4869 or to report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (225) 344-STOP (7867). Tips leading to an arrest could be eligible for a cash reward.
As the investigation continues, the Lewis family is left with heartbreak and unanswered questions, hoping that justice will soon be served in memory of a son, a cousin, a friend—Zachary Lewis, gone at just 23 years old.
This is a developing story. More updates will be provided as information becomes available.
