On Sunday, a tragic incident unfolded in Kenner, Louisiana, as three police officers were shot and injured by a gunman. The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Matthew Lathers, was eventually fatally shot by a Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office sniper, Sheriff Joseph Lopinto confirmed at a joint news conference.
The events began around 9:45 a.m. when Kenner police responded to a shooting outside a home where two individuals had been shot while sitting in a vehicle. The victims, who were believed to be either going to or coming from church, were targeted in front of the residence.
Upon arriving at the scene, the victims directed officers to the home from which the gunfire originated. It was revealed that the residence belonged to a family member of Lathers, who had an outstanding warrant for attempted murder and armed robbery.
Subsequently, a SWAT team was deployed to execute a search warrant at the suspect's home. Upon entry, the team faced gunfire, resulting in three officers being shot. It remains unclear whether Lathers was hit during this initial exchange of fire.
Additional law enforcement support was requested, and when deputies from the sheriff’s office arrived, the suspect began shooting at their armored vehicle. Despite multiple attempts to establish communication with Lathers for negotiations, all efforts were unsuccessful.
A sniper from the sheriff’s office was eventually able to fatally shoot Lathers, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Two of the injured Kenner police officers have been discharged from the hospital, while the third remains in stable condition. The two innocent bystanders who were also shot are currently in stable condition at the hospital.
Sheriff Lopinto announced that his office would lead the investigation into the shooting incident. Kenner, located approximately 13 miles west of New Orleans, was shaken by this tragic event that resulted in injuries to officers and innocent bystanders.
