5 Injured, 1 Critical, in Franklinton Mardi Gras Parade Shooting
Franklinton, LA – A shooting broke out near the Pepe Mardi Gras Parade route in Franklinton on Sunday night, leaving five people injured, authorities reported.
The incident occurred around 7 p.m. near the parade route, according to Franklinton police. Officers and Washington Parish sheriff’s deputies, who were already stationed in the area, quickly responded to the scene and provided emergency medical aid until paramedics arrived.
One victim remains in critical condition, while two others are hospitalized in stable but guarded condition. Two additional victims were treated and released from area hospitals.
A person of interest has been taken into custody, and detectives are continuing to search for additional suspects. Investigators have not yet released details on a motive or whether the victims were targeted.
In a separate incident earlier in the day, police arrested two juveniles who were found carrying firearms along the parade route within a school zone. Additionally, officers encountered an individual armed with an AR-15-style rifle after reports of a potential threat, although it remains unclear if this incident was related to the later shooting.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities urge anyone with information to come forward.
Speedy recovery