Community Mourns 80-Year-Old Baton Rouge Man Fatally Shot on His Porch
Baton Rouge is reeling from the tragic shooting of 80-year-old James Williams, a beloved figure in his neighborhood, who was found dead on his front porch on April 1. Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD) officers responded to a call around 7:45 p.m. on Avenue E, where they discovered Williams with a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Despite their ongoing investigation, no arrests have been made, and authorities have yet to release information regarding potential suspects.
Williams, known for his generosity and welcoming spirit, had lived in the same home for decades. His porch, shaded by a large tree, became a gathering spot for friends, family, and community members who sought his advice, companionship, or a simple meal. The phrase “Avenue E, up under the tree” is well-known in the neighborhood, a tribute to the place where Williams spent so much of his time, offering kindness to those around him.
A Beloved Elder, Taken Too Soon
Williams’ family and friends are struggling to come to terms with his sudden and violent death. His sister, Bertha, expressed deep sorrow, calling his passing a “huge loss to the community.” His daughter, Ciji Williams, shared her devastation, stating:
“If my 80-year-old dad had died from a heart attack, it would’ve been more acceptable than someone coming on his porch and shooting him in the head. As a community, we have to do better.”
Williams was the third eldest of eight siblings, with only two surviving. He was also a father of four—three daughters and a son—who are now left grieving an unimaginable loss. His nieces, Catrina Lavergne and Dina Williams-Davis, say his presence in the community was irreplaceable. Known affectionately as “Uncle Pig”, he provided food and support to anyone in need.
“His 80 years meant something to us, and we were going to celebrate him—the whole Avenues, the field, up under the tree, anybody he took care of, we will stand for him,” Lavergne said.
Williams-Davis, fighting through her grief, echoed the community’s frustration over the senseless violence.
“It doesn’t take all this to get along in the community. He fed anybody, took care of anybody, and to come to an 80-year-old man and shoot him in the head on his own porch—it’s just heartbreaking.”
She also spoke about the struggles young people face today, saying:
“They are so busy minding everyone else’s business because they don’t even have business of their own. And now they’ve hurt my uncle. I’m angry, but I’m going to pray for them because trust me, God has his own time.”
Community Outrage and a Call for Justice
Since the shooting, a steady stream of mourners has gathered at Williams’ home, sharing stories, shedding tears, and finding solace in each other. However, the gruesome nature of his death has only intensified their pain. Due to another fatal shooting in the area, the coroner was delayed in arriving at the scene, leaving the family to face the horrifying sight of their loved one’s lifeless body.
The Williams family is now calling on the Baton Rouge community to help bring justice for their father, uncle, and friend. They urge anyone with information to come forward.
“A family that prays together will stay together,” Lavergne said. “Up under the tree is still gonna be here, and we’re gonna make it better and stronger.”
BRPD is asking for anyone with information to contact their office or Crime Stoppers at (225) 344-STOP. Callers can remain anonymous.
As the investigation continues, Williams’ family is holding onto their faith and unity, hoping for answers and justice in the wake of this senseless act.