Franklinton, Louisiana – A festive Mardi Gras celebration turned into a scene of chaos on Sunday evening after a shooting left five people injured. Police have arrested 18-year-old Jamerian Anders on five counts of attempted first-degree murder and believe more arrests may follow.
The gunfire erupted around 7 p.m. near the parade route in what authorities are calling a gang-related attack. Officers from the Franklinton Police Department and Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, who were already stationed at the event, rushed to aid the wounded until paramedics arrived.
Among the victims, three remain hospitalized—one in critical condition and two in stable but closely monitored condition. The other two have since been released.
Anders was taken into custody late Sunday night after voluntarily speaking with police, during which he allegedly implicated himself in the attack. However, officials have not disclosed a possible motive, and the investigation remains active.
In a disturbing turn of events, earlier that same day, police also arrested two minors carrying firearms along the parade route, within a designated school zone. Additionally, officers responding to reports of gunfire discovered a person armed with an AR-15-style rifle, further heightening concerns over security at the event.
This shocking incident casts a shadow over what was supposed to be a joyous occasion, leaving the community shaken and searching for answers. Law enforcement continues to pursue additional suspects as they work to prevent further violence.
