Shooting at Mardi Gras Parade in Louisiana Leaves 5 Wounded, Suspect in Custody

Five people were injured during a shooting at a Mardi Gras parade Sunday evening in Franklinton, Louisiana, police reported. The incident, described as gang-related, unfolded near the parade route at approximately 7 p.m.

Authorities identified the suspect as 18-year-old Jamerian Anders, who has been arrested and charged with five counts of attempted first-degree murder. According to a statement from Franklinton Police, more arrests are expected as the investigation continues.

Officers and deputies stationed nearby responded swiftly, providing emergency medical assistance to the victims before paramedics arrived to transport them to local hospitals. At present, three victims remain hospitalized, with one in critical condition and two in stable but guarded condition. Two others have already been released.

Anders was taken into custody later that night, around 11:40 p.m., after voluntarily implicating himself during police questioning. Law enforcement has not yet disclosed a possible motive behind the attack, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Earlier in the day, police arrested two youths carrying firearms along the parade route within a school zone, highlighting an alarming trend of safety concerns during what should be joyful community celebrations. Adding to the chaos, reports of gunfire earlier in the day led police to apprehend an individual armed with an AR-15-style rifle.

While Mardi Gras parades often epitomize Louisiana's rich culture and festive spirit, this incident casts a dark shadow, raising questions about public safety and the prevalence of gun violence in such communal spaces.