In Carencro, Louisiana, on the evening of April 1, 2026, the life of 41-year-old Dalana Charlot was brought to a tragic end. A mother of two, she was known for her warm and caring nature, with a gift for bringing people together and a deep love for her family. Her children were the center of her world, and she was remembered as a devoted and wonderful mother.
That Wednesday night, Lafayette Parish Sheriff's deputies responded to reports of a shooting at a residence on Maggie Lane.
Upon their arrival, they discovered Ms. Charlot and her 33-year-old estranged boyfriend, Raylon Wiltz, in the driveway, both suffering from gunshot wounds. Ms. Charlot was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation into the events of that night revealed a troubled history between the former couple. Earlier in the year, on January 30, Ms. Charlot had been granted a restraining order against Wiltz, the same day he was arrested for simple battery. In her request for the order, she had alleged that Wiltz had threatened her with a knife, had a history of mental illness, and had exhibited suicidal behavior. However, the restraining order was dismissed in February when Ms. Charlot did not appear for a court hearing.
The Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office concluded that the tragic incident was a murder-suicide. Investigators determined that Raylon Wiltz shot Dalana Charlot before turning the gun on himself. Wiltz was transported to a local hospital where he later died from his self-inflicted injuries. With the deaths of both individuals, the investigation into the case is now considered closed.