LAFAYETTE, LA — Sunset Man Kills Mother of His Children in Tragic Murder-Suicide Outside Legends Bar
The Lafayette community is reeling from the devastating news of a murder-suicide that claimed the lives of two young parents in what authorities are describing as a deeply tragic act of domestic violence. According to the Lafayette Police Department, 32-year-old Jonovan Dauphine of Sunset fatally shot 29-year-old Samantha Breaux, the mother of his three children, before turning the gun on himself outside Legends Bar in the early morning hours of Sunday, April 27, 2025.
The incident occurred in the parking lot of the popular local establishment on Johnston Street, shortly after 1:30 a.m., when police responded to reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers discovered two unresponsive individuals near a vehicle. Both Dauphine and Breaux were pronounced dead at the scene from apparent gunshot wounds.
Investigators believe the altercation between the two began inside the bar and continued into the parking lot, where the situation escalated fatally. Witnesses reported hearing raised voices and then a series of gunshots. Authorities have since confirmed that the two were formerly in a long-term relationship and shared custody of their three young children.
“This is a heartbreaking case that touches on the very core of our community,” said Lafayette Police Chief Judith Estelle during a press briefing. “Two lives were lost senselessly, and three innocent children are now left without both of their parents. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families affected and to all who loved Samantha and Jonovan.”
Breaux, remembered by friends and family as a devoted mother, was known for her bright spirit, resilience, and unwavering love for her children. She had recently started a new job and was working hard to provide a stable life for her family. Loved ones described her as “the kind of mom who never missed a school play or bedtime story,” and tributes poured in online celebrating her kindness and strength.
Dauphine, whose social media showed frequent posts about his children, had no public history of domestic violence, though police say the couple had experienced difficulties in their relationship. Investigators are still piecing together what led to the fatal encounter but have confirmed that no other individuals were physically harmed during the incident.
The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for increased resources for domestic violence prevention and mental health awareness in the region. Local organizations, including Faith House of Acadiana, which supports victims of domestic abuse, have stepped forward offering counseling and support to those affected by the tragedy.
“These kinds of tragedies often leave loved ones and the community grappling with grief, guilt, and confusion,” said Faith House Director Melissa Dupre. “Our message to the public is that there is help, there are resources, and no one should have to face their struggles in silence.”
As friends and family begin the painful process of mourning, efforts are already underway to support the couple’s children, who are now in the care of extended family. A GoFundMe page has been launched to help with funeral expenses and to provide for the children’s future needs.
A candlelight vigil honoring both lives is scheduled for Friday evening at Girard Park, where community members will gather to grieve, support one another, and raise awareness about domestic violence and mental health challenges.
Anyone struggling with thoughts of harm or needing support is encouraged to contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
The Lafayette Police Department continues to investigate and is asking anyone with additional information or who may have witnessed the events leading up to the shooting to contact detectives at (337) 291-8600 or Lafayette Crime Stoppers at (337) 232-TIPS.
As Lafayette mourns, the loss of Samantha Breaux and Jonovan Dauphine serves as a solemn reminder of the urgent need to address the intersecting issues of domestic violence, mental health, and community support systems—before more lives are lost too soon.