In the quiet community of Marrero, Louisiana, a dispute over property tragically escalated, claiming the life of 44-year-old Tonia Dardar on the evening of May 18, 2018. A lifelong resident of Marrero and a graduate of Tulane University, Tonia was a beloved wife and mother, as well as the president of Who Dat Animal Rescue and Humanitarian Relief.
The events of that fatal night unfolded when 44-year-old Christopher Pike and his 43-year-old girlfriend, Melissa Baous, arrived at the Dardar
residence in the 7800 block of Barataria Boulevard to resolve a property disagreement. The situation quickly turned violent, and Pike fatally shot both Tonia Dardar and Melissa Baous.
Shortly after the shooting, Tonia's husband, Joseph Dardar Sr., returned to his home to a horrific scene. He encountered Pike and an exchange of gunfire ensued. During this confrontation, Pike sustained fatal wounds and died at the scene.
Authorities from the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office launched an investigation into the triple shooting. Joseph Dardar Sr. cooperated with the investigators, providing a statement that was consistent with the evidence they collected. He was subsequently released pending further investigation. The tragic death of Tonia Dardar, a result of a seemingly minor dispute, left her family and community in mourning.
