An argument in a downtown Lafayette parking lot on New Year's Eve escalated into a fatal shooting that claimed the life of 18-year-old Justin Broussard. The incident, which occurred on December 31, 2023, cut short the life of the young man, who was remembered by family and friends during a vigil on what would have been his 19th birthday.
According to Lafayette Police, Broussard was involved in an altercation with two individuals when both suspects produced firearms.
The verbal dispute tragically ended with Broussard being shot. He succumbed to his injuries, leaving his family and community to mourn his sudden and violent death.
In the wake of the shooting, law enforcement officials initiated an investigation that led to the arrest of two suspects. A 19-year-old was taken into custody and charged with second-degree murder. The second suspect, identified as 29-year-old Russell Henry of Arnaudville, was charged with manslaughter and possession of a stolen firearm.
The family and friends of Justin Broussard gathered to honor his memory, celebrating the life he lived and grieving the future he was denied. The vigil served as a somber reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence on the community. The legal proceedings against the two individuals charged in connection with his death are ongoing.
