Ronnie Carter, a 64-year-old Black man, died on November 22, 2022, following a violent altercation with his son inside their Baton Rouge, Louisiana, home. The family tragedy began with a seemingly minor incident that spiraled out of control.
The confrontation happened around 9:30 a.m. at the family’s residence in the 2500 block of Stonewood Drive. According to police, an argument erupted between Ronnie and his 21-year-old son, Adam Carter, after Ronnie blew his nose.
Adam later told detectives that he "becomes extremely angry when he hears someone blow their nose." As the dispute escalated, Adam became enraged, went to his room, and returned with a pistol. His father then reportedly provoked him, saying, "shoot me right here," moments before Adam fired the weapon. Ronnie Carter was shot and transported to a hospital, where he died later that day.
Immediately after the shooting, Adam Carter called 911 for medical assistance. A police spokesperson noted that he "felt bad for shooting his dad" and tried to render aid while waiting for emergency responders to arrive. When officers reached the scene, Adam confessed to the shooting and told them where he had placed the gun.
Adam Carter was arrested and booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on an initial charge of manslaughter. He was subsequently indicted on that charge. Following his arrest, reports in November 2022 noted that he was being evaluated for mental illness or disabilities. Court proceedings to evaluate his mental competency and sanity have since been conducted, and the case remains pending.
According to police, neither Adam nor his father had any prior criminal history. Neighbors reported that Adam and his older sisters had been homeschooled and were not permitted to play with other children in the neighborhood, though they were often seen walking with their father. A police sergeant also stated that Adam had apparently not received any formal education in the five years since his mother had passed away.
