HAMMOND, LA — A 13-year-old boy is facing charges after allegedly shooting and killing his father following an argument about attending school. The incident occurred on the morning of April 14, when the boy refused to exit his father’s vehicle at Tangipahoa Alternative School.
Details of the Incident
At around 7:30 a.m., officers were alerted to the situation when the student refused to get out of the car. After a discussion with a police officer and school officials, the boy’s father decided to take him home. As they pulled away from the school’s driveway, a shot rang out, and the vehicle crashed into a house across the street.
The 13-year-old then walked toward the school’s entrance with a weapon, where he was detained by a police officer. Authorities confirmed that a 5-year-old child was also in the vehicle at the time of the shooting. The boy’s father was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
The Father’s Death and Charges
By April 18, city officials confirmed that the father had died from his injuries. The Hammond Police Department expressed their condolences in a statement, saying, “It is with deep sadness that we report the victim in the shooting that occurred this past Tuesday has succumbed to his injuries.”
The teen was initially charged with attempted second-degree murder along with additional charges. However, with the father’s death, the charges are expected to be upgraded to second-degree murder. The Tangipahoa Parish grand jury will need to indict the teen for the murder charge to be officially filed.
School Lockdown and Response
School officials acted quickly when the incident occurred. The building was placed on lockdown, and within minutes, all students were safely inside classrooms, with doors locked to ensure their safety. Ronald Genco, assistant superintendent of Tangipahoa Parish Schools, emphasized the swift action taken to protect students.
Police Chief’s Statement
Hammond Police Chief Edwin Bergeron described the incident as tragic and senseless, stating, “Sometimes, when evil things are going to happen, they just happen… I believe our lieutenant’s actions today could have stopped something much worse.” He also highlighted the importance of school resource officers (SROs) in preventing further injuries during such incidents.
The Juvenile’s Detention
The 13-year-old suspect is currently being held at the Florida Parishes Detention Center as the investigation continues.
