HAMMOND, La. — A shooting incident early Monday morning in Hammond has left one man dead and two others injured, including a toddler. Authorities have arrested the suspected shooter, 23-year-old Janvourian Franklin, following his arrival at a local hospital with a gunshot wound.
According to Hammond Police Chief Edwin Bergeron Jr., the situation began around 3 a.m. when officers received a call from a woman who wanted to retrieve her belongings from her ex-boyfriend’s residence. Police advised her to remain in a nearby parking lot on North Morrison Boulevard rather than return to the home.
In the parking lot, the woman was accompanied by 23-year-old Bradley Blount, with two young children in the backseat—one belonging to her and the other to Blount. Shortly thereafter, Franklin, driven to the scene by his sister, confronted Blount. Tensions escalated quickly, leading Franklin to draw two firearms and open fire.
Blount sustained multiple gunshot wounds during the exchange, while the woman and one of the children, a two-year-old, were also injured. All three were transported to North Oaks Medical Center for treatment. Tragically, Blount later succumbed to his injuries, while the woman and child are expected to recover.
In a dramatic turn, the car the victims were in lost control and crashed into the front of a laundromat nearby, owned by Soap Opera. Fortunately, the business was closed for the night, avoiding potential further injuries or property damage.
After being treated for his own injuries, Franklin was charged with multiple offenses, including first-degree murder and three counts of attempted first-degree murder. Police later arrested his sister, 20-year-old Demetriane Anderson, who faces charges as an accomplice to the crimes.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police urge anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. Individuals can contact Detective Randall Baudier at the Hammond Police Department or provide tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa.
This tragic event highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence, raising concerns about safety in the community. As police continue their investigation, local residents are left grappling with the consequences of this violent act.