In the early evening of January 4, 2023, the life of 22-year-old Illya Antwine “TJ” Winns, a male from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was tragically cut short. The shooting occurred at approximately 8:29 p.m. in the parking lot of the Triple S Food Mart on North Foster Drive. Responding to the scene, law enforcement found Winns suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the efforts of first responders, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the location.
This violent act marked the first homicide of the year for the city of Baton Rouge.
The Baton Rouge Police Department promptly began a homicide investigation into the shooting death of Winns. In the initial stages of their inquiry, investigators were unable to determine a motive for the shooting and had not identified any suspects. The circumstances surrounding the incident remained unclear, leaving a community to grapple with the sudden and violent loss of a young life. Authorities urged anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigation, hoping to piece together the events that led to the fatal shooting.
As time has passed since the untimely death of Illya Antwine “TJ” Winns, the investigation has remained open. To date, there have been no public announcements regarding any arrests made in connection with the case, nor has any information been released identifying a suspect or suspects. The case continues to be an active investigation as law enforcement officials work to bring closure to Winns's family and the community. The absence of resolution in his death leaves a painful void for those who knew him.
