State Police release video of trooper involved shooting that left man dead in Ascension Parish

ASCENSION PARISH, La. (WAFB) - Nearly two weeks after State Police shot and killed a man in Ascension Parish, State Police released video and details of what led to the shooting on Friday afternoon.

State Police said a burned-out taillight caused a state trooper to initiate a traffic stop near Highway 431 and Gad Road at 1:49 a.m. on September 30, 2025.

State Police said the SUV was slow to come to a stop, and the driver was slow to get out of the vehicle.

Brandon Nicholas was told that he had a broken taillight, and he said it was broken in a car wash. During the interaction with the trooper, Nicholas referred to him as sir on multiple occasions. Nicholas said he was in the process of picking his wife up from work.

Nicholas was asked if there were any guns inside the car. He said no, according to the video.

State Police said the trooper observed a gun and detained Nicholas. He informed Nicholas he was being detained.

State Police said, “Knowing there was a firearm inside observing Nicholas reaching for it, the Trooper continued trying to gain control of Nicholas’ hands inside the vehicle. Nicholas began to aggressively accelerate.”

“During the physical struggle the trooper’s body camera became dislodged,” State Police said.

As the vehicle pulls off, the Trooper is seen on dashcam shooting multiple times at the vehicle as Nicholas pulls away.

The trooper pursued the vehicle and found Nicholas had critical injuries. EMS performed life-saving measures, but Nicholas died at the scene.

Troopers said they found a pistol discarded nearby. The LSP Crime Lab tested the weapon, and it was traced back to Nicholas.

Nicholas was forbidden from having a firearm due to his previous felony convictions, according to State Police.

The investigation remains ongoing. A copy of this report will be turned over to the District Attorney for their review.

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