A sheriff’s deputy and two fathers lost their lives, while another officer was shot in an altercation involving an arrested individual at a Louisiana courthouse on Monday evening, according to officials.
Deputy Charles Riley was fatally shot during a confrontation with Latrell Clark, a 27-year-old man charged with sexual assault. Riley had been part of a team interviewing Clark, also accompanied by Brett Stassi Jr., the sheriff’s son, in the Plakemin Court building, which also houses local government offices.
Clark faced booking in connection with the sexual assault case when he attempted to grab one of the officer’s guns, as stated by state police.
While some shots were exchanged, it’s not clear if they were all fired from the same weapon or who was actually responsible for the firing.
Ultimately, Clark was shot dead during a dispute, officials reported.
Both Deputy Riley and Stassi Jr. suffered serious injuries and were quickly taken to a nearby hospital, where Riley succumbed to his wounds. Stassi Jr. is currently in critical but stable condition, according to the sheriff’s office.
“It’s shocking and heartbreaking. We didn’t expect this here,” remarked Ronnie Hebert, an Iberville Parish deputy.
Hebert, who has served for over 30 years, expressed that it’s the first time he’s been involved in such an investigation where one of their own was shot or killed.
He described Riley as highly regarded, noting, “He was a beloved figure.” He did not provide specific details about the ongoing investigation but mentioned that the Louisiana State Police has taken over, with assistance from the FBI.
Governor Jeff Landry urged the community to come together in prayer. He emphasized, “The violence must end.”
The Sheriff’s Office is conducting several blood drives on Tuesday morning in honor of Stassi Jr., who remains in intensive care.
“He is in a battle for his life, and we ask for everyone’s prayers for him and our entire family,” his father, Brett Stassi, shared.
