13-year-old killed by stray bullet during target practice; 2 men arrested

NEW ROADS, La. (WAFB) - The Pointe Coupee Parish Sheriff’s Office confirmed two men have been arrested following a deadly shooting on Friday, Nov. 18.

According to Sheriff Rene Thibodaux, a 13-year-old boy was riding his four-wheeler along the levee near Saizon Road in New Roads when he was shot and killed by a stray bullet from a nearby group who were target practicing.

The teen was identified as Blake Weldon Shipley, of Livonia. His funeral services have been announced. Check the Facebook page of Niland’s Funeral Service Inc. for details.

Officials arrested Donell Francois Jr., and Quentin Leonard ll on Saturday, Nov. 19.

They have both been booked into the Pointe Coupee Detention Center on charges of illegal discharge of a firearm and manslaughter.

Sheriff Rene Thibodaux released the following statement:

Tonight, an awful tragedy occurred within our parish. A thirteen-year-old boy’s life was taken from being struck by a bullet that was discharged from a firearm by individuals who were reportedly target practicing.

I have taught gun safety to the youth in our parish for most of my adult life. I cannot stress the importance enough of knowing your target, the trajectory of a bullet, and what lies beyond that intended target. The family of this child will not be celebrating Thanksgiving or Christmas with their beloved boy. Please keep his family and our community in your prayers.

The investigation is ongoing and names & details will not be released at this time.

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