In the fall of 2021, a promising young man's life was tragically cut short over a dispute that began with a mere five-dollar parking fee. Zelanz Richard French, a 23-year-old male from Shreveport, had traveled to Ruston, Louisiana, to take part in the homecoming festivities at Grambling State University on October 16th. The celebratory atmosphere of the day would soon turn into a scene of violence and loss at the Peachland Mobile Home Park, located just a few miles from the university
campus.
As French and a companion, D'Nique Walker, attempted to park their vehicle, an argument erupted over the small parking charge. The disagreement quickly and senselessly escalated to gunfire. In the aftermath, French was fatally wounded, and Walker sustained injuries. The shooting occurred near a venue hosting a homecoming after-party, casting a dark shadow over what should have been a joyous occasion for the community and visitors alike.
In the wake of the shooting, law enforcement officials launched an investigation that swiftly led them to a suspect. Deputies with the Lincoln Parish Sheriff's Office arrested Dasmey Hart, a 17-year-old resident of Ruston, in connection with the deadly incident. Despite his age, the gravity of the alleged crime prompted the justice system to handle the case in adult court.
Subsequently, a Lincoln Parish grand jury handed down an indictment against Hart. He was formally charged with the second-degree murder of Zelanz French and the attempted second-degree murder of D'Nique Walker. The indictment marked a significant step in the legal proceedings, moving the case towards a trial where the events of that tragic night would be scrutinized and a measure of justice sought for the victims and their families.
